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Devotions

The daily devotion ministry writes devotionals for each day of the year. This year we had 49 writers. This ministry would not be possible without our writers. The devotion is on the Eastridge website and it is emailed to those who sign up. There are 125 who receive them by email. If you would like to receive the devotions by email send your email address to Jan Mitchell at swimknit@aol.com and ask to be put on the mailing. Lori Snyder, Jan Mitchell, Susan Taylor and Susan Pinkerman have contributed by putting the devotions on the website, sending out the devotions, recruiting writers, and compiling the Lenten and Christmas devotions.

February 3, 2012

TITLE: Plastic Bag Evangelizing

SCRIPTURE: John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

REFLECTION: The other day I forgot a couple of things that I intended to take to work. I called my husband, who was still at home. He grabbed a plastic bag to carry the items and dropped it off at my job. When I removed the items and folded up the bag, I was shocked to see John 3:16 imprinted on the bottom. The yellow bag was from the store Forever 21. I had to find out more, so what else could I do but go to Google on the computer. I learned that Don and Jin Sook Chang, the owners of the apparel chain, are devout Christians who have given millions to their church. They have put the brief inscription at the bottom because of their strong religious convictions.

Some of the websites that had some information about this were comment boards. Even more surprising than discovering the scripture reference at the bottom of the bag were some of the comments people had made. Some people had no clue what the reference was. "I wondered what that was" was one comment. "I always wondered why people held that up at basketball games...lol" was another comment. This made me realize that we need missionaries here in America as much as in other countries. We shouldn't fool ourselves that almost everyone knows about Jesus (whether or not they believe is something else, but I thought most Americans at least knew about Jesus).

Each of us should look for opportunities to spread the news of the salvation offered to us through Jesus. We shouldn't be afraid to say that we believe in Jesus when given the opportunity. Political correctness is so unimportant compared to the opportunity to help save a soul. We don't have to stand on a street corner and proselytize loudly. But we should quietly and sincerely be the hands of Jesus as we help others. We should look for ways to honor God as we build bridges with those who may be unbelievers.

PRAYER: Lord, we pray that you will open doors for us to share Christ with others. Give us the boldness to overcome fear of embarrassment or failure. Holy Spirit, provide us with words that communicate effectively with others. We pray that your Word will be spread rapidly throughout America and the world. Amen.

Cindy Thomson

February 2, 2012

TITLE: God Will Provide

SCRIPTURES:
Matthew 6:31-34 So don't worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today. (NLT)

Proverbs 3:5-10 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones. Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine. (NIV)

Deuteronomy 14:22 Make an offering of ten percent, a tithe, of all the produce which grows in your fields year after year. (MSG)

Mark 12:43-44 Jesus called his disciples over and said, "The truth is that this poor widow gave more to the collection than all the others put together. All the others gave what they'll never miss; she gave extravagantly what she couldn't afford-she gave her all." (MSG)

REFLECTION: These are difficult economic times, and we've all been affected in one way or another. For us, it was scary when we came up significantly short several months in a row. We couldn't figure out why this was happening or what to do about it, so prayed for guidance. God helped us find a few areas to make cuts, but they weren't nearly enough. We wondered if we might need to make more painful cuts and changes.

I thought about our friends who've been through far worse. Several years ago, they lost their dream home, had to downsize, eventually moved into her parents' tiny basement with their (then 2) kids, and declared bankruptcy. What amazed me was their steadfast faith in God throughout the whole ordeal. Though they had very little, they still tithed at their church, trusting that He would provide for their needs. He's blessed their lives richly since then...especially in spiritual ways. Even now, I'm in awe of how they can manage their (now 7) children on a very limited income. They'd tell you without hesitation, "It's all God."

Their strong faith and commitment to tithing is an inspiration to me. During our crisis, I considered reducing our pledge at church, but realized that showed a lack of faith. I needed to completely trust that God would provide-even when I couldn't see how. Besides, the church was counting on the money we'd promised. But more than that, I couldn't bear to take anything away from the One who's given us everything. So I decided not to budge on how much we gave to God. Besides, didn't I trust in the guidance I'd prayed for? Or was I trying to solve the problem on my own?

An amazing thing happened when I decided to completely trust God. Miraculously, the next few months we didn't come up short at all! I couldn't find a rational explanation for why..."It was all God." If our economic situation gets worse, we may be forced to make some painful cuts and changes. I pray God will help us be ready to trust Him fully with these difficult decisions.

PRAYER: Blessed Heavenly Provider, forgive us for worrying about not having enough money for everything we WANT; for you assure us you'll give us everything we NEED. May we learn to trust you with ALL our hearts, acknowledge you in ALL our ways, and honor you in our giving. When we do this, we thank you for the contentment and blessings you bring. Amen.

By: Sharon Irvin

February 1, 2012

TITLE: Time to Pray

SCRIPTURE: I Thessalonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

REFLECTION: Many of us begin our day with prayer. We also pray at bedtime. Of course, there are many opportunities and needs for prayer all day long.

We live near a fire station. Every time I hear the fire or ambulance vehicles leaving the station, I pray for the protection of the emergency crews. I also include those traveling along their route, the persons they are assisting and the loved ones of those involved. Certainly, this is one opportunity for prayer. As Harold B. Lee, Mormon Church leader wrote "Life is fragile, handle with prayer."

We certainly can find times to pray in our daily routine - standing in line at the supermarket checkout; waiting at the Dr.'s office; or at a traffic tie-up. We can even pray when we are "on hold" on the phone. We can pray for a friend, or even a stranger. Perhaps we can breathe a prayer of thanks for one or more of our blessings. We can find time to pray almost any time or place.

PRAYER: Dear God, help us to follow Jesus' example of constant prayer. Remind us to give thanks at all times and circumstances. Amen.

Lois Poppe

January 31, 2012

TITLE: GOD'S LOVE

SCRIPTURE:
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
John 3: 16 (NKJV)

REFLECTION: Every morning when I arrive at work, I check to see how much progress has been made on our new building. One morning as I approached the back entrance I noticed the top of a square beam in the shape of a small cross. The next morning I checked the beams again and there were three small vertical crosses. I thought this was a great reminder of what God has done for me.

PRAYER:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for sacrificing your Son for my sins. Help me to be worthy of your gift. Amen.

Dee Ann Dilley

January 30, 2012

TITLE: Making Choices and Decisions

SCRIPTURES
The Lord gave this message to Jonah, son of Amettai. Get up and go to the great city of Nineveh! Announce my judgment against it because I have seen how wicked its people are. But Jonah got up and went in the opposite direction in order to get away from the Lord. He went down to the seacoast, to the port of Joppa, where he found a ship leaving for Tarshish. He bought a ticket and went on board, hoping that by going away to the west he could escape from the Lord. Jonah 1:1-3

When I had lost all hope, I turned my thoughts once more to the Lord. And my earnest prayer went out to you in your holy Temple. Jonah 2:7

REFLECTION: In my workshop class on Wednesday evenings for Kindergarten-2nd graders, the curriculum we have been using is "Making Choices". The curriculum uses the book of Jonah to illustrate choices with activities, stories, etc. Jonah tries to run away from God at the beginning of the story. But after he is swallowed by the big fish, he remembers one way of making a good choice. He stops everything, he prays to God, and listens for an answer, and when he feels he knows what God wants him to do, he goes out and does it.

In class we talked about decisions or choices, we have made, and we repeated the words- STOP!, PRAY!, GO FOR GOD! Then we made treats to remember what to do in a time where a tough decision or choice needs to be made. We took Graham Crackers and covered them with frosting and added a red, yellow and green M and M's. They became Stop Lights. RED-STOP, Yellow-Pray, Green-GO FOR GOD. Can you remember when you needed to make a decision? Did you go to God? When you need to make a decision, think of a Stop Light and follow Red, Yellow, Green.

PRAYER
Loving God, thank you for teaching us to look to you for guidance as we make choices in our lives. Continue to be with us as we need to make choices and decisions at home, school, and all parts of our life and help us to remember to STOP, PRAY, and GO For GOD. AMEN

Susan Taylor

January 28, 2012

TITLE: Living Water

SCRIPTURE: John 7: 37-38 On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and proclaimed, "If any one thirst, let him come to me and drink. He who believes in me, as the scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart shall flow rivers of living water.'"

Matthew 25: 35 "...I was thirsty and you gave me drink"...

REFLECTION: Water is something I usually take for granted. But working in my kitchen the other day, I began to think about the abundance of fresh, clean water available to me at the turn of a tap for drinking, cooking, cleaning, and gardening. And this morning I was luxuriating in a nice, hot shower and thinking what a privilege that is. For various geographical, political, cultural, and economic reasons, many people in the world do not have access to clean water for drinking and other daily needs or for irrigation of life-sustaining crops. And for similar reasons, many people are not acquainted with Jesus Christ. Can you imagine a life without easy access to safe drinking water? Or a life without the "living water" we receive through Him?

A search of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) website shows many, many mission projects designed to deliver access to both. For example, Living Waters for the World, a mission project of the Presbyterian Synod of Living Waters, has helped install clean water systems at more than 300 sites in 22 countries. The 2010 EPW Thank Offering funded a grant allowing construction of water tanks at Ekwendeni Hospital in Malawi to provide clean water to lessen the spread of disease and infection there. The Unicef Tap Project aims to bring clean and accessible water to millions of children around the world.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of fresh, clean water to quench the thirst of our bodies and for sending Your Son to quench the thirst of our souls. We pray that we will find ways to help others meet their physical needs for life-giving water, and that in doing so, we can also give them access to the water of life that comes from faith in Jesus Christ.

Judith Keller

January 27, 2012

TITLE: Worthy

SCRIPTURE: "You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being." Revelation 4:11

REFLECTION; As we are studying the book of Revelation, the above verse is one that has come to have so much meaning for me. And it tells us so much about God and the one who is worthy. The four living creatures are in heaven before the throne of God and they are saying holy, holy, holy. Holy means set apart or perfection and we know that there is only one who has that perfection. The four creatures are the lion (representing the king), the ox (power or strong), man (intelligence or above the animals), and the eagle (majestic).

The Greek word for Worthy is axios from ago which means to weigh or give an estimate, and having value. And we learn that God is worthy of glory, honor, and power. Glory comes from the Greek word doxa and it is to think, to recognize, or an opinion. We recognize God for who He is. And He is the salt of the earth, which stops corruption. Honor is to show reverance or to fear Him. Power is to be able or to be capable. He is capable of everything and has power.

Nothing happens or exists apart from God's intention or His will. We exist because I (God) willed you to exist. We are as a result of His will and for His pleasure and joy. That certainly gives a special meaning for each of us. We need to know who God is. It will change the way we live. And we are to let others know who He is.

Worship involves recognizing the "worth-ship"of another. It is a response to the greatness of God. People in the Bible worshiped God for who He was (His person) and what He did (His works), for His actions are always consistent with His character. Let us each put new meaning to the worthiness of God as we worship Him.

PRAYER: Lord, let us gain more understanding of You and that You are "worthy". Let us remember that each and every day as we worship you. Let that show in our lives. Amen

Marilyn (Jones) Albin

January 26, 2012

INSPIRATIONAL

Emergency Telephone Numbers
These are more effective than 911

Call when . . . . .

You are sad, phone...................... John 14

You have sinned, phone..................... Psalm 51

You are facing danger, phone...................... Psalm 91

People have failed you, phone..................... Psalm 27

It feels as though God is far from you, phone..................... Psalm 139

Your faith needs stimulation, phone..................... Hebrews 11

You are alone and scared, phone..................... Psalm 23

You are worried, phone..................... Matthew 8:19-34

You are hurt and critical, phone..................... 1 Corinthians 13

You wonder about Christianity, phone .................... 2 Corinthians 5:15-18

You feel like an outcast, phone..................... Romans 8:31-39

You are seeking peace, phone..................... Matthew 11:25-30

It feels as if the world is bigger than God, phone..................... Psalm 90

You need Christ like insurance, phone..................... Romans 8:1-30

You are leaving home for a trip, phone..................... Psalm 121

You are praying for yourself, phone..................... Psalm 87

You require courage for a task, phone..................... Joshua 1

Inflation's and investments are hogging your thoughts, phone..................... Mark 10:17-31

You are depresed, phone..................... Psalm 27

Your bank account is empty, phone..................... Psalm 37

You lose faith in mankind, phone..................... Corinthians 13

It looks like people are unfriendly, phone..................... John 15

You are losing hope, phone..................... Psalm 126

You feel the world is small compared to you, phone..................... Psalm 19

You want to carry fruit, phone..................... John 15

Paul's secret for happiness, phone..................... Colossians 3:12-17

With big opportunity/discovery, phone..................... Isaiah 55

To get along with other people, phone..................... Romans 12

ALTERNATE NUMBERS
For dealing with fear, call...................... Psalm 3:47

For security, call...................... Psalm 121:3

For assurance, call...................... Mark 8:35

For reassurance, call...................... Psalm 145:18

All of the above numbers may be called directly, no Operator assistance is necessary!

And all lines to Heaven are available 24 hours a day!

January 25, 2012

TITLE: Lord give me patience and do it now!

SCRIPTURE: Galatians 5:22-23 The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness; goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self control.

REFLECTION: My recent auto accident will provide opportunities for many devotions throughout this year. Tons of emotions, some positive and some not so much, surface from time to time. Everything is more difficult to do right now and takes more time. I get frustrated trying to perform simple tasks like getting a glass of water or making the bed. I need to pause and be grateful that I can do these things myself at all. I remind myself that some people have no water to drink or a bed to sleep in. I am grateful for the friends who help me do the things that I am not able to do right now. I am grateful for the prayers and good wishes from others. If you find yourself frustrated, pause, breathe, pray for patience. It works.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank you for your help and guidance in providing us with patience and the other fruits of the spirit. In Jesus name. Amen.

Kathy Kuehn

TITLE: Hymn of Promise

SCRIPTURES

Hebrews 11:1: Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the
conviction of things not seen.

<http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+119:116&version=NIV>
Psalm 119:116: Sustain me, my God, according to your promise, and I will
live; do not let my hopes be dashed.

REFLECTION

In Nebraska, January is usually a cold, dark, snowy month. For many people,
the joy of Christmas may have been buried under a drift of post-holiday
let-down and doubt. We yearn for the warmth and cheerfulness of spring. The
book of Hebrews reminds us that hope and faith are intertwined, and the
verse from Psalm 119 reminds us that God's promises will sustain us and
support our hopes.

In 1985, American composer Natalie Sleeth was contemplating the loss of a
friend and a line from a T.S. Eliot poem: "in our end is our beginning."
Weaving together opposites-winter and spring, death and resurrection, doubt
and believing-she wrote the words and music to "In the Bulb There is a
Flower," also known as "Hymn of Promise" (Hope Publishing Company, Carol
Stream, IL). She dedicated the hymn to her husband, a minister who had
cancer. He requested that this hymn be sung at his funeral.

Here are two verses:

In every bulb there is a flower, in the seed, an apple tree;

In cocoons a hidden promise; butterflies will soon be free

In the cold and snow of winter, there's a spring that waits to be,

Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.

In our end is our beginning; in our time, infinity;

In our doubt there is believing in our life, eternity.

In our death, a resurrection; at last, a victory';

Unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.

This was one of my dad's favorite hymns, and in January 2000, his fellow
choir members sang it at his memorial service. The hymn is in the
Presbyterian hymnal.

PRAYER: Great and loving God, grant us the strength and faith to see
beyond "the cold and snow of winter" to a "spring that waits to be." Help us
live a life of faith, and show us how we can bring hope to those around us.

Claudia Reinhardt

January 23, 2012

TITLE: Become Like Little Children

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 18:1-5 (NIV)

A that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me."

REFLECTION: These are beautiful verses and wonderful words of Jesus to remind each of us that we must become like little children in order to enter the kingdom of heaven. I believe that Jesus is saying to each of us to think of a child whom we know and think of that child's humble attitude, that child's innocent attitude about the worries of the world, and that child's attitude of sense of wonder about the happenings around him/her. That child is not arrogant. That child is not critical of others. That child does not cause arguments and fights. That child is not worried about how much money or material possessions he/she can accumulate. That child is not hurrying from one task or appointment to another, never taking the time to stop and visit with others. Jesus says to each of us, "Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven."

I remember one particular child who was in a class that I taught years ago who was absolutely the most caring, compassionate, understanding, and thoughtful child whom I have ever known. He was always ready to help another child or an adult with anything that needed to be done, whether it involved helping someone with an assignment, helping someone in the cafeteria, or helping someone on the playground. He seemed to thrive in his ability to help others. He seemed to have an inner sense for when another child needed his help or needed him to just listen.

Every time I read these verses, I think of this child. I believe that Jesus wants you and me to become just like this child and humble ourselves like this child. Can we do this or are we too concerned about all of our worries, our appointments, our possessions, etc? I hope that we can and will humble ourselves like this child.

PRAYER: Our Heavenly Father, help us to humble ourselves like a little child and become like a child in our attitudes, in our relationships with one another, and in our caring for others because in so doing we will become more like you, which we strive to do each and every day. Guide us and keep us always in your care for it is in Your name that we pray. Amen

Linda Douglas

January 21, 2012

TITLE: Forever and Loving God

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 100:5

For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.

REFLECTION:

I had a gift for one of our Hope Renewed Group ladies and needed to get it to her by Christmas. The storybook "When I Love you at Christmas" lay on my cabinet as I prepared ahead the mashed potatoes casserole, the broccoli casserole and chocolate dessert. It lay there while I shopped for the turkey and made sure it thawed in time for the December 24^th Christmas dinner for my family. I saw it when I went to pick up the ham. It lay there while I wrapped the packages and put them under the tree.

On December 23 I seemed to have a couple of hours with my list completed. I looked at the book and knew I had to deliver it that day. I could take it and run another errand at the same part of town. I called the lady and found out the address where she was working. I was in time, she wasn't leaving town until that afternoon. She seemed in awe that I was delivering something to her at work so close to Christmas. I could tell she was delighted to have the book to read to her first granddaughter born earlier in 2011.

But I did not know what God did that day until just a couple of days ago. Her husband had left her earlier in the year and she had joined our group a few months before. Her email to me with thanks for uplifting her on a difficult day told me her wedding day so many years ago was December 23^rd.

PRAYER:

Lord, I can't thank you enough for constantly showing your love to Hope Renewed Group. You consistently provide new people in our lives for us to love helping the sting of losing one we have loved. You engineer timing in such a way that we may uplift each other. Your miracles continue and fill us with joy. My favorite verses (John 15:9-12) have been fulfilled again and brought me joy comparable to nothing else on earth. Thank you, Amen.

Sandra Hilsabeck

January 20, 2012

DEVOTION: Communing with God

SCRIPTURE:

James 5:16: "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."

Matthew 6 "Our Father who are in Heaven, hallowed by thy name . . ."

1Thessalonians 5:17 "Pray without ceasing."

REFLECTION: We all are busier than we often would like to be-even retirees don't seem to have enough time to do everything they want to do or need to do. Unfortunately, one of the first things that seems to get slighted is our prayer time. I try to pray just before going to bed and upon rising the next morning, but with the rush of things to do, my prayers are often a few "bless this" and "help that." Jesus' model prayer began with honor and praise for his Heavenly Father, a first priority which often gets omitted as I focus on a few immediate needs before closing the door on prayer time and taking up the threads of the day.

An old hymn puts it well:

"Take time to be holy,

Speak oft with thy Lord,

Abide in him always,

And feed on his Word . . .

Spend much time in secret

With Jesus alone;

By looking to Jesus,

Like him thou shalt be;

Thy friends in thy conduct

His likeness shall see.

We need to reassess our priorities and set aside definite times during the day for a quiet time when we can talk to-with-God.

It should not be just a list of wants and concerns. We need to listen and get to know God. And when we close with an "amen," it should not be like closing the door on God, compartmentalizing him. The scripture enjoins us to "pray without ceasing." By that, I think it means that we should always be in a prayerful attitude, judging our actions and decisions by what God would have us do. When something turns out well, a quick "thanks, Lord," will do fine. With regular prayer times and an attitude of prayer as we go about our daily concerns, we can get to know God and gain the peace and confidence he can give us.

PRAYER: Our Father, Too often our prayers are sandwiched between other concerns to which we give higher priorities. They are perfunctory and centered on what we want. Help us to remember the blessings you have showered on us all of our lives and to give you thanks and praise. Help us to listen to you, to discover your will for us. And help us to make regular, effective prayer a priority in our lives. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Keith M. Heim

January 19, 2012

Title: Words of Wisdom

Scripture:

"I'm a young man,

and you are all old and experienced.

That's why I kept quiet

and held back from joining the discussion.

I kept thinking, 'Experience will tell.

The longer you live, the wiser you become.'

But I see I was wrong-it's God's Spirit in a person,

the breath of the Almighty One, that makes wise human insight possible.

The experts have no corner on wisdom;

getting old doesn't guarantee good sense." Job 32:7-10 (The Message)

Reflection:

The words above were said by Elihu to Job. It's probably true that becoming older does not guarantee becoming wiser. If God's spirit is in a person, wisdom follows.

A living example of this is Myra Dickerson. Myra turned 100 years old this month. She was a long-time member of Eastridge who moved to Missouri to live with one of her sons. To me, Myra is the epitome of a spiritual woman. She exudes God's love for everyone.

And she demonstrates her wisdom. In her Christmas letter this year, Myra said she had been encouraged to share some of her "wisdom." I'd like to share her thoughts.

*Each person has the responsibility to relate to God, but don't forget to talk to God all the time.

*He is your personal friend and will understand.

*Love and forgive. Life is too short to waste it away by hating.

*See all the good things in people before you criticize them. The world is full of beautiful people.

*Let there be peace and love on earth, and let it begin with me.

Prayer:

Dear God, Thank you for sending people like Myra to demonstrate your love. Everyone who knows her is a better person for having known her. Help us all to follow her words of wisdom and strive to become more like her. Amen.

Robin Hadfield

January 18, 2012

FIGHT OR FLIGHT?

SCRIPTURE: 1 Corinthians 13:6-7 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

REFLECTION: There is a theory in science called "fight or flight". When animals are threatened, they have an automatic response to either fight that which threatens or run away from the situation.

I'd like to propose that we actually have a third response, but admittedly, it doesn't come naturally for us. Rather than fight or flight, a better choice could be fellowship.

Our church is called to be a fellowship, to help one another and to love and support each other in times of trouble. It means dropping our guard, letting people to see us as we really are and allowing others to love and care for us when we're hurting. I have found that when I share what is really going on in my world, it allows others to do the same.

PRAYER: Loving Father, Help us not to isolate but to draw on the strength of the fellowship of other believers in our church. Amen

Barbara Garrison Anderson

January 17, 2012

TITLE: BREAD

SCRIPTURE: "You gave them bread from heaven when they were hungry and water from the rock when they were thirsty. . ." Neh. 9:15 (TLB)

REFLECTION: Can anything rival the fragrance of a loaf of bread baking in the oven? Baking bread and sharing it with friends is one of my favorite things to do. I like experimenting with all kinds of flour - wheat, rye, spelt, barley, etc.

During January I have been trying to read the more than 250 references to bread throughout the Old and New Testaments. One can quickly discern the symbolism of bread to our faith.

It was Joseph's laws of wheat distribution during the famine that saved Egypt and his family (Gen: 47). Many sold themselves for money to buy grain during times of famine. They were often paid in dough or bread, and even today those two terms are slang for money. The "bread of heaven" saved the people during the exodus (Ex: 16: 4). While eating a meal of barley bread and roasted grain with Boaz, Ruth learned her fate (Ruth 2:14). She became the wife of Boaz, and an ancestor of Joseph (the husband of Mary, mother of Jesus) (Ruth 4:16, 17).

Jesus called himself "The Bread of Heaven which gives life to the world' (John 6:33). He also called himself "the Bread of Life" saying, "He who comes to me shall never hunger. . ." (John 6:35). During the Last Supper, Jesus asked us to remember him each time we break bread together (Matt: 26:26).

Wonderfully fragrant bread baking in the oven, sustaining both our physical and spiritual lives -- what a beautiful reminder of the Grace of God Our Father, the love of Our Lord Jesus Christ, and the presence of The Holy Spirit.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, we confess that too often we are blind to the constancy of Your love. Help us to be ever grateful for the blessing of Our Daily Bread, and guide us in the ways Your Son, Jesus, taught. In His precious name we pray. Amen.

SUBMITTED BY: Judy Welch

January 16, 2012

SCRIPTURE: 1 Timothy 6:17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.

DEVOTION: When I was growing up, the worst thing that could have happened to me (education wise) would have been to come home from school with a F. My mom would have been horrified, my dad would have raged, and I would have died of mortification. But not long ago, I received an e-mail from a friend stating that you needed three F's in your life. If you had these three F's, your life would be full and complete. Fascinated, I read on; she was speaking about Faith, Family and Friends.

At this time in my life, those three F's are very important. As friends and I age, faith, and family help us to bear the sorrows, salve the wounds and look to the future. Faith and friends often help us to raise our families. And friends and family help us look to the future. That is what we have every January. A future, which we can view with a jaundiced eye or we can count on our three F's and step forward into a new year. Let's all get three F's this year together.

PRAYER: Dear God, help us to count our many blessings as we enter a new year, working toward a positive and happy outlook on life with our three F's of Faith, Family and Friends.

Carolyn F. Olsen

January 14, 2012

TITLE: Overwhelmed and Disorganized

SCRIPTURE: James 1:5-8 "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do."

REFLECTION: Life is a juggling act. Just when we have everything in control, someone (usually ourselves) throws another ball in the air and before we know it, we're desperately trying to juggle them all. This week I began Glynnis Whitwer's "Clutter Free" challenge. Glynnis is a writer for Proverbs 31 ministries and has written the book "I Used To Be So Organized" which I plan to purchase. She didn't begin our challenge with tips on closets or buying more totes for our stuff. Glynnis says our minds, schedules, homes and offices are cluttered with too much stuff for such a space. We begin by seeking God and asking for his wisdom. Join me in logging on to glynniswhitwer.com to read her free daily Clutter Free challenge/devotion.

PRAYER: Dear Father: As we try to stay organized this year, please grant us your wisdom and peace as we seek your guidance in all of our cluttered and busy lives. Amen.

Cathy Schapmann

January 13, 2012

A Native American and his friend were in downtown New York City, walking near Times Square in Manhattan. It was during the noon lunch hour and the streets were filled with people. Cars were honking their horns, taxicabs were squealing around corners, sirens were wailing, and the sounds of the city were almost deafening. Suddenly, the Native American said, "I hear a cricket."

His friend said, "What? You must be crazy. You couldn't possibly hear a cricket in all of this noise!" "No, I'm sure of it," the Native American said, "I heard a cricket.""That's
crazy," said the friend.

The Native American listened carefully for a moment, and then walked across the street to a big cement planter where some shrubs were growing. He looked into the bushes, beneath the branches, and sure enough, he located a small cricket. His friend was utterly amazed.

"That's incredible," said his friend. "You must have superhuman ears!" "No," said the Native American. "My ears are no different from yours. It all depends on what you're listening for."

"But that can't be!" said the friend. "I could never hear a cricket in this noise."

"Yes, it's true," came the reply. "It depends on what is really important to you. Here, let me show you." He reached into his pocket, pulled out a few coins, and discreetly dropped them on the sidewalk. And then, with the noise of the crowded street still blaring in their ears, they noticed every head within twenty feet turn and look to see if the money that tinkled on the pavement was theirs. "See what I mean?" asked the Native American. "It all depends on what's important to you."

What's important to you? What do you listen for? Some people say that there is no God, and that He never speaks to us anymore. But perhaps they can't see or hear Him because they aren't listening for Him. They are living for themselves, not for God.

If you are in tune with God, you will be able to notice Him at work in your life and in the world. And you'll be able to hear Him when He speaks.

Author Unknown

January 12, 2012

Stress

The churning inside me never stops; days of suffering confront me. Job 30:27

The holidays are past now. All the Christmas hoopla is over. Even in the church year we are now in ‘Ordinary' time. There are no more parties, no more presents to buy. The decorations are coming down, and we are settling into daily patterns.

Even though we are now past the stress of Christmas, it seems people are stressing now about how to pay the bills, deadlines at work, new jobs, no jobs. Kids have too many activities, kids are getting in trouble because they don't have enough to keep themselves busy. Sometimes it seems that there is no end to stress. All the scientific studies say stress is bad for us. It raises blood pressure, causes a lack of sleep, heart problems, and a myriad of other problems.

Many people have carried stress burdens for years. What are we to do with our stress burdens? Jesus says, "Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (Mt. 11:28-30) That is great advice, but exactly how are we to do that?

The first step may be to look at how we react to stress. We need to learn to not only share the load with God, but actually give him the entire load. No matter what happens, we should give him the burden. As the saying goes, when it rains, it pours. God essentially promises in Luke that it won't only pour, but it will flood!!! "I will show you who he is like who comes to me and hears my words and puts them in to practice. He is like a man building a house who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came the torrents struck that house but could not shake it because it was well built." Luke 6:48

When the floods come, remember to give him the burden. Start practicing today - when it is just cold and windy. Then, when the torrents hit, faith will be there to help us believe that He will carry the burden.

Dear Lord, Sometimes life is really hard. We may not understand it all, but help us to handle all the day to day problems. They can be so overwhelming, and when they continue to hit, we start drowning. Please take our weights so we are not pulled down by them, and give us a helping hand to pull us out of the torrent. Remind us to give you our loads, so our stress does not ruin the goodness you give us. Amen.

Laurie Schlitt

January 11, 2012

Scripture: Psalm 118:24 Give thanks to the Lord for He is good. This is the day the Lord has made: let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Reflection: Yesterday we arose at 4AM to drive 2 hours to a mountaintop on the island of Maui. We drove 1 hour on very steep windy roads to a mountaintop where people gather to watch the sun rise over a volcanic crater. It was an absolutely gorgeous sight to behold. The Lord in all His magnificence. Yet over the whole island, there were only about 150 people gathered to see it - the rest were sleeping in, going to work, doing their normal activities. In fact, we almost slept in ourselves. At the last minute we decided to make the early hour, the tricky drive, and get out there and see it.

It made me wonder how many beautiful gifts from God I miss every day - big things and little things - or things I see and just don't think to give God the credit for.

Today is another day to give thanks. Let us give thanks to the Lord for He is good.

Prayer: Dear Lord, Today is the day YOU made. I give you thanks for all the grand and ordinary things you have created for me today. Please give me a nudge when I'm missing out. And I pledge to give my best effort to seeing and experiencing all the wonderful gifts you've provided. Amen

Lori Snyder -Sloan

January 10, 2012

DON'T WORRY, BE HAPPY WITH JESUS

Matthew 6:34 NLV Do not worry about tomorrow. Tomorrow will have its own worries. The troubles we have in a day are enough for one day.

Psalm 8: 1 NLV O Lord, our Lord, how great is Your name in all the earth. You have set Your shining greatness above the heavens.

REFLECTION: It is such a wonderful time of year for both reflection and planning. The New Year's Eve service was a wonderful time to remember that all our past sins and worries and guilt are washed away with the grace of God through Christ's blood on the cross.

It was a time of rededicating our lives to Him. What a blessing that He always takes me just as I am.

It has been a year of answered prayers and miracles with many loved ones and friends. How great is our God!

Heavenly Father, We praise you and thank you for your grace. Please lead us in your way. Give us the comfort of your presence in hard times and your joy and peace each day. In Jesus' name, Amen

Carolyn Fetterley

January 9, 2012

TITLE: Decision For 2012

SCRIPTURE: Romans 12:1-2. I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God--what is good and acceptable and perfect.

REFLECTION: What will the year ahead, 2012, provide for you? Have you thought about this or planned for it? There are so many things that we just take for granted that just happens. For instance, do you ever stop to consider the miracle of God's creation of the earth as a part of the universe? We just participate in the living, but it is such a marvelous creation that we accept. There is nothing we do, or can do, that makes any part of it to happen in our life. No one can foretell what a year will bring forth in their life. There are just some happenings that we cannot control.

However, there is something that we do control and can accept about our lives. We can be absolutely certain that God will not forsake us in the year ahead. We can decide to be the best followers of Christ's teaching. This is such a personal decision, and the most important one to make. In Paul's writings in the book of Romans, he encourages us to live in complete submission to Christ. He identifies that it is our personal responsibility in giving ourselves to Christ. As you read Romans, and specifically chaper 12:9-21, reexamine your commitment to Christ to live as a true Christian, and to give yourself a comfortable and rewarding start in the year 2012.

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, give us the wisdom and courage to follow the guidance that is provided in the reading and study of Your word. Help us to faithfully accept Your way. Amen.

Lauren Holcombe

January 7, 2012

Title: Winter

Scripture: Psalms 30:4 Sing unto the Lord, O ye saints of his, and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.

Reflection: Christmas is over and a new year has begun. The glitter and joy of the holidays has passed us and winter will shortly have us all wanting for spring. Long shadows make the days seem darker. The wind cuts through even the heaviest coat. This is a hard time of year.

We can forget the things we have to be thankful for in the cold of winter. Perhaps that is why we have the Psalms. When winter's cold and dark start to pull you down, I suggest reading through the Psalms to remind us to give thanks and rejoice in the Lord.

Prayer: Our heavenly Father, give us a thankful heart all the year round. Amen

Steven Lloyd

January 5, 2012

Scripture: Psalm 118:1-4
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.
Let Israel say: "His love endures forever."
Let the house of Aaron say: "His love endures forever."
Let those who fear the LORD say: "His love endures forever."

Reflection: As we enter the New Year and all that it brings, may we remember "His loves endures forever. If your life is good, remember to thank God. "His loves endures forever". If your life hits some rough patches, remember that God is with you. "His loves endures forever". What ever the New Year brings remember "His loves endures forever",

Prayer: Thank you God for your ending love. That no matter what we do, you will forgive us and love us. Help us to live a life that shows others that you are a God of unending love. Amen

Jan Mitchell

January 4, 2012

Reciprocating Grace

Matthew 7:2 "For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

Reflection: A friend was frustrated with someone and said that this person had not granted the grace to him that he had granted to her. Reciprocity is a principle that is repeated in the bible. It means that if you give, you will get. The usual example of this is forgiveness. We can't expect forgiveness from God if we don't forgive others. Conversely, if we forgive others, God promises to forgive us. The relationship is give and get.

But the relationship is not just between God and humans. It is actually a three way street, between God, person, and person. It is a circle of giving. If someone is giving then someone else is getting. When God is added to the circle of giving, and you give as well, then everyone is not only giving, but also getting. The situation perpetuates itself. If you forgive others, then you get forgiveness; others and God will keep that circle going. Everyone will be getting forgiveness. The scripture from Matthew talks about giving and getting judgment. If you judge others, then you will be judged by God and man. The opposite of that is true as well. The opposite of showing judgment is showing grace.

If you show grace to others, then the measure of grace you use will be shown to you as well. This measure of grace will be given to you by God AND by others. Grace means giving someone an allowance of forgiveness, even when they did not ask for it. Grace means overlooking an offense or someone else's flaws. Grace is allowing others to be imperfect and loving them anyway. Grace means not holding them to an impossible standard. God showed each of us the biggest measure of grace. He sent Christ to die for our sins. God started the flow of grace and we are expected to keep the circle of grace moving.

When you show grace to others, you are representing the image of God to them and providing an example for them to follow. They, in turn, will be more willing to show you grace. If you don't show grace and only show judgment, you are inviting judgment back onto yourself. Grace should be the goal.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, you gave us the best example of grace when you sacrificed your son for us. Forgive us when we can't even show the smallest measure of grace to others. Help us to fulfill the circle of giving each and every day in our contact with others. Amen.

Cindy Thomson

January 3, 2012

TITLE: God of the Ages

SCRIPTURE: Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and today, and for ever. (KJV)

John 8:58 - Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am. (KVJ)

REFLECTION: Canadian hymn writer Edith Margaret Clarkson (1915- 2008) wrote God of the Ages in 1981. As we end one year and begin another one reflect on the words of scripture and the hymn. Our Lord has been and will always be with us. What a wonderful way to begin 2012!

God of the ages, history's Maker,
planning our pathway, holding us fast,
shaping in mercy all that concerns us:
Father, we praise you, Lord of the past!

God of this morning, gladly your children
worship before you, trustingly bow;
teach us to know you always among us,
quietly sovereign- Lord of our now.

God of tomorrow, strong Overcome,
princes of darkness own your command:
what, then, can harm us? we are your people,
now and forever kept by your hand.

Lord of past ages, Lord of this morning,
Lord of the future, help us, we pray:
teach us to trust you, love you, obey you,
crown you each moment Lord of today!

PRAYER:
Hope Publishing Company, Carol Stream, IL, added a fifth stanza to Clarkson's hymn in 1987.

God of the nations, you have redeemed us,
blessed us with privilege, freedom and youth:
yours is the Kingdom!--make us your heralds,
sharing your Gospel, living its truth!

May we share and live the Gospel in the coming year as Jesus said in the Great Commission:

Matthew 28:19-20 - Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father , and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you always , even unto the end of the world. Amen. (KJV)

Gail Keown

January 2, 2012

TITLE: A Clean Slate

SCRIPTURE: Ephesians 4:32 " And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you."

REFLECTION: A new calendar year gives us an opportunity for a fresh start. When I was a child, my Sunday school teacher reminded us students of this opportunity. She explained that it was like our individual blackboard slate wiped completely clean. (Today, we might say it is like deleting on our computers.) God's forgiveness is available to us every day not just at the beginning of a new year. The Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6: 9-15) reminds us of that in verse 12. "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors."

As a young child, I threw an icicle at my sister. It just missed her eye. I told my sister that God would forgive me. My sister complained to our mother, who used the incident as a "teachable moment." My mother explained that I needed to sincerely confess my error, be truly sorry, and then ask for God's forgiveness. It was an important lesson for both my sister and me.

The Scriptures proclaim another essential part of forgiveness. "Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven." (Luke 6:37) Forgiveness of others can heal us as well as our relationships. Most importantly, it can deepen our relationship with God.

Our guilt over past mistakes sometimes prevents us from asking for God's forgiveness. It is never too late to go to God in prayer, confess our sins and ask God to help us to take away our guilty feelings. We can choose to let go of our guilt and no longer allow anger and bitterness to poison our life. Forgiving others or ourselves takes time and effort.

Prayer: God we need your forgiveness. Help us to find ways to forgive others daily and look for the wonderful blessings in our lives. Grant us your mercy and grace. Amen.

Lois Poppe

December 31, 2011

UNEXPECTED GIFTS

Romans 3: 24 And all need to be made right with God by his grace, which is a free gift. They need to be made free from sin through Jesus Christ.

I came home Thursday night, December 22, to find two boxes sitting by my door. I looked at the return addresses to find both my brothers sent me a Christmas gift when they had decided we would no longer exchange presents. I had to text them to make sure I had understood the gift exchange decision, but I was pleasantly surprised and thankful.

God's grace is freely given to us without earning it. What a wonderful gift to be thankful for!

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your free gift of grace. Help me to extend God's grace to others. Amen.

Dee Ann Dilley

December 30, 2011

LOVE EACH 0THER

SCRIPTURE: John 13:34 So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.

REFLECTION: Since a new year is nearly here, I looked for some scripture with the word "new" in it. The scripture is not new to us, but is a good reminder for us to remember and show in our living at the beginning of a new year. We all have resolutions for a new year, put "Love each other" at the top of the list. This new commandment was not actually new to the Bible. In Leviticus 19:6- Never seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone, but love your neighbors as your self. I am the Lord.

In the John scripture, Jesus is teaching his disciples. His disciples were to be living examples of Jesus' love. We as his disciples are to be living examples of Jesus' love. Take this as a resolution into the new year.

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, Jesus came to earth to love and teach us to love each other. Be with us in a new year and help us to make this our resolution for the new year. Amen

Susan Taylor

December 29, 2011

TITLE: Thanks and Amazement

SCRIPTURE: Psalms 112: 1 Shout praises to the Lord! The Lord blesses everyone who worships him and gladly obeys his teachings.

Psalms 112: 5-9 Life will go well for those who freely lend and are honest in business. They won't ever be troubled and the kind things they do will never be forgotten. Bad news won't bother them; they have decided to trust the Lord. They are dependable and not afraid, and they will live to see their enemies defeated. They will always be remembered and greatly praised, because they were kind and freely gave to the poor.

REFLECTION: This is the time of the year for reflection and remembering. What I like to remember and think about are those that have assisted others over the previous months and years. Some days the media mentions these folks but often they are the people that quietly assist us without any mention of them in the paper, on television etc. Most of the time that is what they prefer. Think about those persons that work outside in all kinds of weather on Habitat for Humanity houses, about those that work with youth, about those that take their neighbor to the doctors, about those parents that teach their children to respect their teachers and to assist the poor and sick and most of all, those that unashamedly witness to us and others about Christ. These persons often amaze me and give me hope.

PRAYER: We send you our thanks for all that you have given us. We want to worship and obey you. We want to help our families, neighbors and friends and those who are in need. Give us the strength to do all these things. Amen.

Carol Budka

December 28, 2011

SCRIPTURE: It has given me great joy to find some of your children walking tn the truth, just as the Father commanded us. And now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another. And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love. 2 John 1:4-6

REFLECTION: As we come to the close of the old year and start to look forward to what may be in the new year, we often think of what we would like to see change or do better this next year. I thought of this as I was reading 2 John this week and here we see very plain what God would like us most to remember and work towards. It is not a new command but an old one. It is one we can work on all our lives and one we can grow in more and more.

John addresses this brief letter to a chosen lady and her children, commending them for walking in the truth and encouraging them to remain faithful in their obedience to God. John takes nothing for granted. Realizing that standing is just one step removed from falling, He issues them a reminder: Love one another. This command is important enough to bear repeating. Loving one another is equivalent to walking according to God's commandments.

John's spiritual children were loving in the truth, they were walking in the truth, and they were abiding in the truth. Where have you made progress this year in learning to love, walk, and abide in the truth? Where do you want to be next year at this time? Set some specific goals: place them in your Bible; pray about them daily; and grow each day in the truth. What better place to start than with a very important part of the command that was given in the beginning: Love one another. Have a growing year in 2012.

PRAYER: Lord, be with us with every step we take this next year and help us grow in your command to love one another. We cannot do it by ourselves but with your help we can keep growing. Amen

Marilyn (Jones) Albin

December 27, 2011

Title: Listening to God

Scripture: So Eli told Samuel, "Go and lie down, and if He calls you, say, 'Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.'". 1 Samuel 3:9

Reflection: My Grandfather Kerr often would say, "God gave you two ears and one mouth for a reason." I also remember him saying, "I always learn more when listening rather than talking." Growing up, I talked all the time, and I often spoke before thinking, so he was probably trying to teach me a lesson.

As an attorney, I have learned to be a more careful listener. Truly understanding my clients' needs and plans makes it easier for me to do my job effectively. As a father, I have learned to be a more caring listener. Understanding my children's questions and fears helps me better respond to them and facilitate the learning process. At suppertime at home, I love to ask Kristen and John open ended questions and let them tell me about their day, what games they played with Mom, or what new things they learned.

God is always speaking to us, though not as explicitly as He spoke to Samuel. We should be more attentive listeners to His will in our lives. It is easy to look back on something that has happened in the past to see God's providential hand at work, but if we truly stop and listen, and use our two ears instead of our one mouth, we may see God's will as it unfolds every day. We should take time, as His servants, and listen to Him speak to us by attentively watching His will be done every day.

Prayer: Lord, Speak, for your servants are listening. Help us to listen more, speak less, and thereby understand your will for our lives. Amen

Andrew Loudon

December 25, 2011

All the people

Luke 2: 10-11 And the angel said to them, "Be not afraid; for behold I bring you good news of great joy which will come to all the people; for to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. RVS

There are so many things to ponder in this passage of scripture. What strikes me as important today is the good news of the birth of Jesus the Christ is for all the people. As we celebrate with family and friends by exchanging gifts, singing carols and sharing food, let's remember all the people who may not be as fortunate as we. Share the good news with all the people. Have a blessed Christmas Day.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the birth of your son to show us your will in caring for all the people. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Kathy Kuehn

December 24, 2011

THE GIFT OF LOVE

John 3:16, 17. For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believes in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life. For God did not send his son into the world to condemn the world, but that through him the world might be saved.

Bruce Larson, one of my favorite Christian theologians says: "God had a gift for the world in that baby born in the stable at Bethlehem. God came in Jesus to call us to be his friends, to tell us that as God cares even for the sparrows, He cares much more for us. In those times, the sparrow was the cheapest available meat. You could buy one for a penny. If even the sparrows have worth in God's eyes, how much more worthwhile are we? We are as precious to God as if He had made no one else. As it happens, He has a whole world full of children, but if we were alone in the universe, we would still merit his undivided attentions."

Unworthy as we are, God loves us.....we are his children, and he will never leave or forsake us. What a wonderful gift!!

Prayer: Dear Lord, we thank you so much for the wonderful gift of your beloved son, Jesus Christ, who came into this world in the humblest way imaginable, being born in a lowly manger. And thank you, also, for all your patience and goodness to us, in spite of our unworthiness. AMEN

Gerry Draney

December 23, 2011

Contentment as a Gift at Christmas

Philippians 4:12 I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation. .... I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

Many of us, as we grow older, experience the adding of new families to our growing family as children and grandchildren marry. The joy of adding to our families also brings responsibilities. Christmas events can be spread over a few days so the children can attend multiple celebrations; but many times the same date is desired and the younger set has to choose which family event to attend. Or, so many events are planned that the wonderful gift of Christ being given to us in this holy season is lost in the hubbub.

Traditions, numbers of people in the families involved, size of homes for the celebrations, distances traveled and many other circumstances come into play as the holiday events are scheduled. I believe it is up to the older generations to find the secret Paul found to be content and find the strength to help the young ones feel comfortable with their choices.

In the great Swedish immigration into America in the 1880's and early 1890's my great grandmother and her siblings spent Christmas a long way from their parents in Sweden. Having had family around me since I was little, I never knew the loneliness they must have felt. Many families today are spread across the country and across nations. It seems to me to be more tolerable today with our modern communication; but I am sure many sit quite alone as the holiday hours pass.

Prayer: Dear Lord, please be with those who do not have the joy of family around them this Christmas. Change the hearts of those of us who want more family time when there is only so much time to spread around. Make us thankful for the hours we have with children and in-laws. Help us to please Jesus with our actions and reactions this holiday season. Help us give the gift of contentment. Amen.

Sandra Hilsabeck

December 22, 2011

Hebrews 1:1-4

Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets, but in these days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom he also created the worlds. He is the reflection of God's glory and the exact imprint of God's very being, and he sustains all things by his powerful word. When he had made purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs.

The first time I studied Hebrews, I was in awe of how God had lead his people throughout the ages. The above verses tell us of the special gift God gave us at Christmas, his son. Our own children are the reflection of us. They look like us, they talk and sound like us, they act like us. In my daughter and grandson, I see the many aspects of myself and our family. God's son likewise is a reflection of God . He is the exact imprint of God. He reflects God's glory and speaks God's word. He is God's sacrifice so that we may be saved.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, as Christmas draws near, help us to thank you for the blessings of our families. Help us to praise you for the gift of your son. Help us comprehend your glory and your love for us. Amen

Nancy Hall

December 21, 2011

"Census Time"

Luke 2:1-6 "In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. . . . Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, . ."

Did you fill out your 2010 U.S. Census form and send it in last year? Federal, state, county and municipal districts are currently being redrawn to reflect population (and political) gains and losses identified in the 2010 U. S. Census, giving us a contemporary frame of reference for the one ordered by Caesar Augustus more than two thousand years ago. Augustus had his reasons for ordering a census (conscription? revenue?!), but God also had a very special reason for it to occur at the time and in the way that it did. Instead of having a corps of census takers canvassing every village and town throughout the empire, Augustus ordered the head of every household to report to his ancestral home. As a descendant of King David, Joseph had to go to Bethlehem--not an easy journey (approximately 80 miles) when the time for Mary's baby to be born was near-but the imperial decree offered no exceptions or extensions. More than seven hundred years earlier, the prophet Micah identified Bethlehem as the birthplace of the Messiah (Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1-6), a detail only the sovereign God of history could foresee, a prophecy whose fulfillment only He could orchestrate.

I like to think that I am in control of my schedule and activities, despite all the evidence throughout my lifetime to the contrary! How much better to recognize that "my times [and circumstances] are in God's hands" (Psalm 31:15) and trust Him to accomplish His good and perfect plans, just as He fulfilled His promises concerning the Savior's birth.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for sending the Lord Jesus--just as you promised. I pray that I may be in tune with your times and purposes for my life throughout the coming year.

Judy Heaston

December 20, 2011

"Why do we celebrate Christmas?"

Luke 2:11 "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."

Most Christian churches today make a big deal of Christmas-caroling, Christmas Eve services, appropriate sermons, gift exchanges, decorations, etc., and we all have our own private celebrations. However, there are some denominations that do not celebrate it, and the celebrations of a century or two ago were usually simple and home-centered--No shopping in the "Monkey Ward" and Sears catalogs I remember as a child; No on-line shopping, and no tramping through stores that begin to display their yuletide wares before Thanksgiving. One or two gifts per child did nicely in those days, and many of them were homemade.

Each of us should ask ourselves seriously why we celebrate Christmas. If the answers are "It's that time of year again," "It's for the children," "I look forward to the presents I get," "It's a time for family gatherings," "I enjoy caroling and Christmas parties," etc., it is not surprising that many of us are a bit "jaded" when it comes to this annual "celebration." As Christians, if our first answer is not "to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ," perhaps we need to re-evaluate the meaning of Christmas. When we realize that even when we were yet sinners, Christ died for us so that we might have eternal life-and that this is the perfect gift at Christmas, one that lasts throughout succeeding "holidays" into eternity, the wonder we used to experience at Christmas will return.

Prayer: Our Father, Help us to sort through the myriad of reasons we celebrate Christmas to the reason it should be the most meaningful of all our holidays-Your gift of your son, Jesus Christ, to mankind and the free gift of salvation to all who accept him as their Lord and Savior." In his name, Amen.

Keith M. Heim

December 19, 2011

Memories

Luke 2:11 "Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord."

What pictures are in your mental photo album? We all have images in our heads of special events in our lives. The Christmas season is a time to create new memories with friends and family and to recall those times in the past that had special meaning for us. One of my favorite Christmas memories of growing up at Eastridge is when all the choirs joined together to sing "O Holy Night." It was always a very moving experience, both because of the hymn itself and because singers of all ages were joining together to praise God in music.

Many of my Christmas memories include music, which has the power to bring us to tears and to bring us great joy. When Don Ehly sings "Silent Night" in German on Christmas Eve, I am reminded of my grandfather, who was from Denmark and sang "Silent Night" in his native tongue.

Whether it's the sound of a special carol or hymn, the sight of nativity scenes, the smell of pine wreaths, or the taste of Christmas cookies, we're surrounded by reminders of the season. We record these events in the photo album of our minds. Let us also take time to review past Christmases and enjoy the meaning of the season. For Christmas is the time to give thanks and praise for the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Our Heavenly Parent, We are grateful at Christmas and throughout the year for the gift of your son, Jesus Christ. Help us to take time to recall the past and to look forward to wonderful Christmases in the future.

Robin Hadfield

December 18, 2011

Jesus Showed Us How to Reflect and Radiate

John 1:9 There it was - the true light was coming into the world that illumines every person

John 8:12 When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

There are many references in the Bible of Jesus as the Light. Jesus brought light to a dark world. At Christmas time we illuminate our homes with twinkling lights and we pull cards out of envelopes that have sparkly glitter on them.

We can let the inner Light of Jesus show this Advent season in the things we do and say. Look at all the decorations and see the Light. Hear about the Light in the messages of the Christmas Carols we sing. Look at a new born baby and see the potential for the Light. As we go about our holiday shopping think of the gift that Jesus was to a world that desperately needed his Light.

Right now let's bring that illumination into our soul and feel the peace and love of Jesus. And, even though we take the Christmas lights down when the holidays are over, let the Light of Jesus show in our actions, speech and habits all year long.

Prayer: Now, dear God, turn our thoughts of light into action. Help us to see the things you have put before us. Use us to be living examples of your light and love. You showed us how when you gave us Jesus. Amen

Mary Lienemann

December 17, 2011

Gifts

Psalm 98:1 And when they were come into the house, they say the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts: gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.

There are some many beautiful memories of gifts from the past holiday season. The excitement that Christmas was near, which meant the Advent Calendar would appear on the kitchen wall, with an enclosed chocolate treat, to be taken from the specific day slot in the calendar, and an accompanying story to be read of events which had occurred on that day. Family and friends, whom you were not able to see during the year or not often during the year, would come for extended visits, and of course that also would bring extra treats. The season was filled with much hustle and bustle, and secrets of gifts you wanted to share with others. Of course, the thoughts of what will I receive as my special gift. The beautiful time spent with Grandparents and the amount of special foods which had been prepared to share with all, as they arrived for that special Christmas time. The time set aside for Christmas decorating, which always included the presentation of the Bible, with the story of Jesus' birth marked, surrounded with the Nativity scene as a backdrop. Family wanting to be certain that we understood the true meaning of Christmas, as this season gave us the most important "gift", the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Today may we continue to make beautiful memories and enjoy the gifts of the season, but let us not forget the important gift given to all, the relationship we share with our Lord and Savior.

Prayer: Gracious Lord, thanks for the memories of past Christmases and the gifts we have given and received. May we all remember the "true" meaning of the season, and continue to give you thanks for your gift of love and guidance in our lives.

Shirley Flynn-Bell

December 16, 2011

From the Beginning

John 1:1-2 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.

John 1:14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.

When I helped teach Confirmation class, I was always rather amazed that quite a number of the kids understood the Christmas story-Jesus coming to earth in the flesh as a baby-but didn't fully comprehend that Christ was present with God from the very beginning of creation. I'd ask, if Jesus came to the earth in the form of a baby, where was he before? Some stunned faces would look back, unsure if this was a trick question or not.

"He's not in Genesis," someone would say. "The Spirit was"-thinking of the beginning of Genesis where it's written, "and the Spirit of God was over the waters." And then would ensue a good discussion of the Trinity.

Ironically we focus so much attention on Christmas (Jesus being physically "born") and soon thereafter on Easter (Christ's crucifixion and ascension) that we're left with basically ten months to ponder the before-born, while-alive-on-earth, and after-ascension "stages." And certainly the while-alive-on-earth takes up the vast majority of our pondering-as it rightly should I would argue.

Am I advocating that we somehow de-emphasize Christmas? Egads, no! Jesus' becoming flesh and making his dwelling among us is central-is vital-to our being Christians, to our being saved through Christ's taking our sins upon Himself. But I pray that we will focus on the WHY of the Word becoming flesh much more so than on the HOW of that happening.

Prayer: God, I give you great praise! Let me give freely of myself this Christmas season and always. Today, tomorrow, and in all things that I do. I ask for the grace that is only yours to give. Amen.

Greg Tubach

December 15, 2011

A BABY IN A MANGER

Luke 2:19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.

When a baby is born, all bad things are forgotten as inspection is made of the gift with which God has honored you.

But imagine a long journey followed by a birth, only warmed by the heat of the animals in a stable. A husband unsure of what this will mean, yes God spoke to him, but really a virgin birth! Who really is this baby and then a star lights the sky and shepherds come to worship. Mary knew a baby was to be born, a special baby but did she realize what a great gift God had given her? Maybe, maybe not.

But it does not say in the Bible that she was upset or even afraid when the shepherds came to worship her baby. Instead, she treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart. She wrapped her wonderful little babe and placed him in a manger and there he still warms our hearts.

Christmas is wrapped in many traditions but no gift is greater than that babe in a manger. Each year we return to marvel at the birth and begin again our journey to the cross.

Prayer: Dear Lord, as our Christmas season is upon us, let us again ponder in our hearts the meaning of the birth of Christ and the wonderful gift God gave us.

Carolyn F. Olsen

December 14, 2011

Title: Purpose

Scripture: John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life."

Reflection: One thing I really love about Jesus is that we don't read about Him wasting any time. He knew what His purpose here on earth was, and he was focused on accomplishing it. Imagine knowing from the day you were born exactly how many days you have left to live. Wouldn't that have an impact on your everyday life? Jesus spent His time investing in people, in teaching, preaching, and healing. When He does take time to himself, he spends it in prayer.

I recently read the book "Tuesdays With Morrie" for a Stephen Ministry class, and it was a fascinating look into the life of a man who knows he is dying, and how that changes the way he lives. Morrie says: "Everyone knows they are going to die, but nobody believes it. If we did, we would do things differently." We don't often think about death during Advent, we are focused on the joyful celebration of new life, the birth of Jesus. But I think it would be helpful to keep the big picture in mind. Jesus did many amazing and wonderful things while He lived, but the greatest purpose of His life was actually His death on the cross, to take away our sins. Jesus was born so that He could die, for all of us. In this way, our puny, short, earthly life has been redeemed into something greater: an eternal life with God. When we dwell on this thought for a moment, what impact can that realization have on the way we use our time on earth?

Prayer: Dear Jesus, You had something that none of us have; the number of Your days. None of us knows exactly how long we have to live, but we do know that when we are done living on earth, we have eternal life with You in heaven. Help us to focus our remaining time, just as You did, investing in people who are precious to You. Thank You for coming to earth so that we could have eternal life with You. Amen.

Kathleen Cosner

December 13, 2011

Be at Peace and Take Heart!

John 16:33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

As we move through the holiday season it is sometimes difficult to focus on what Christmas is all about, the celebration of Jesus Christ! Television, magazines, Happy Holidays and Season's Greetings cards seem to me to continue to try to make this a season of generic celebration while they remove Jesus from the equation.

If you get the chance, make sure you watch A Charlie Brown Christmas. The cartoon portrays Charlie Brown and his friends putting on a school Christmas play and actually talks about the commercialization of Christmas. Toward the end of the show, Charlie Brown's friend Linus gets up on stage in a wonderful soliloquy and delivers the story of Jesus' birth straight from the book of Luke and goes on to explain to Charlie Brown that this is what Christmas is all about.

Compare this to Shrek the Halls, or any of the more modern Christmas specials and you will see nothing with regard to the birth of Christ.

In John 16:33, Jesus is telling us that the non-believers in the world are out of sync with Christ and that we can expect to continue to see tension with them. Jesus reassures us, however, that our coming to Christ will provide us with comfort because we are building and growing our relationship with Jesus!

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for all you have given me! Help me to have courage and in spite of struggles and forces that would try to pull me away from you, help me to follow you and know that you are always there for me. In Jesus name I pray. Amen!

David Pinkerman

December 12, 2011

God is Good

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

This has been a hard year for many families, including ours. Families are having to make some hard choices, trying to do more with less. Pay checks are not keeping up with inflation. With Christmas just around the corner, I am wondering where money for presents will come from this year. With 2 teenagers, I know what is on their Christmas lists, and I know that we won't be getting those items.

This Bible verse promises that God works for the good of those that love him. I don't know what his plan is, but we can all trust that he is on our side. Maybe it won't be a spectacular Christmas gift wise, but maybe we will have a better Christmas.

Dear Lord, times are hard for many families this year. This seems to be so much suffering. Remind us of what you have called each of us for, so that we may contribute to your good works, and your blessings may flow again. Amen.

Laurie Schlitt

December 11, 2011

Title: A contagious faith

Scripture: Acts 10: 1-3, At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly. One day at about three in the afternoon he had a vision. He distinctly saw an angel of God, who came to him and said, "Cornelius!"

Reflection: In the time of the Early Church, the remarkable Roman Centurion named Cornelius lived in Israel. In this position he would have been a leader of Romans as well as an overseer of the Hebrew people. His belief in the Christian God would have come at some cost to him. I imagine his peers thought he was a bit odd at the least, and the Hebrew people of the time wouldn't have accepted him as one of them either - he'd have been an outsider in both camps. In spite of this, he was faithful. In fact, he was so faithful that it was noticed by God, who sent an angel to him with instructions, which he then followed. In my Bible study of Acts, his faithfulness is discussed, and the students are asked "How would your friends and family describe you and your faith?" Ahh, now there's a moment of truth!

I challenge you to ponder that question today. And if you find yourself, as I did, unsure of what that answer would be, maybe Advent is the time to consider this poem of anonymous origin. Could 2012 be the year to make your faith contagious?

I Caught Your Faith (anonymous writer)
I saw you stand bravely for years
But saw no trace of senseless fears.
I saw you stand calmly through stress
But caught no glimpse of bitterness.
I saw you stand prayerful in grief
But saw no trace of unbelief.
Though you spoke well of Jesus Christ.
I caught your faith watching your life.

Prayer: Dear Lord, you came as a baby so that your life could be a model to us all. You died as a man so that your sacrifice would save us all. What you ask in return is that we give you our hearts and our lives - that we turn away from the sins of worry and bitterness and use our very lives to point to you. Today, and every day, please let my faith in You be visible not only in the words I say, but in the life I live. Amen

Lori Snyder-Sloan

December 10, 2011

Enthusiastically Sharing the Good News

Luke 2:15-18 When the angels left them and went back to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, that the Lord has made known to us." So they hurried off and located Mary and Joseph, and found the baby lying in a manger. When they saw him, they related what they had been told about this child, and all who heard it were astonished at what the shepherds said.

About once a week, I have the pleasure of having lunch with a group of second graders. Quite often they share stories about experiences they have had since the last time we were together. I love to watch their facial expressions and listen to their voice inflections while they tell their stories, as it is usually with a great amount of enthusiasm that they share the details with me.

I can only imagine what kind of enthusiasm was in the voices and on the faces of the shepherds the night of Christ's birth after they got over the initial shock of what the angels had shared with them. The news of the birth of their long awaited Messiah had just been told to them and they could hardly wait to check it out and then share the fabulous news with everyone around them.

Prayer: Gracious God, we thank you for the shepherds and their enthusiasm in sharing the news of Christ's birth. By their example, may we enthusiastically share Christ's redeeming love and endless grace, in any way we can, with all who would choose to listen and receive. Amen

Patty Niemann

December 9, 2011

Waiting

SCRIPTURE: I waited patiently for the LORD; he inclined to me and heard my cry. He drew me upward from the desolate pit, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Psalms 40 1:3a (RSV)

REFLECTION: This is the liturgical season of Advent-a time of waiting for the fulfillment of God's promise.

Eastridge Presbyterian Church is waiting-waiting for new pastoral leadership. Unfortunately, the way we do it the Presbyterian Church getting a new pastor takes a long time. And let's face it, we are not good at waiting for something, whether it is waiting for a light to change, a computer to boot, or the economy to turn around. "Dear LORD send me patience", we pray, "and I want it NOW!"

Advent is also a time of preparing-looking into our hearts to make sure we are ready for a new and growing relationship with God through His son Jesus.

We can prepare ourselves for the coming new pastoral leadership as well. Prayer is essential. This is an opportunity to ask ourselves (and God) what God wants this congregation to do and to be. Be open to new possibilities. Maybe God has a new song for us to sing.

PRAYER: O Lord, send us patience... Amen.

Bill Wehrbein

December 8, 2011

Be Patient

Isaiah 7:13 Then Isaiah said, "Hear now, you house of David! Is it not enough to try the patience of men? Will you try the patience of my God also? Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."

Luke 2: 28-32 Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: "Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for the glory to your people Israel."

As we plan and prepare to wait for the time we remember the birth of our Savior, I think of how long the Israelites waited for their promised Messiah. Simeon had waited a long and righteous life for His birth. Led by the Holy Spirit, he had gone to the temple, to acknowledge Him and to thank God for sending His salvation, not just for Israel, but to be a light to the gentiles.

God asks us to wait upon Him, but He does not fail us. During this holy season, let us lift up our voices in gratitude not only for our eternal salvation. Let us also praise Him for the knowledge that as we wait, He has chosen a new pastor to lead EPC. Let us thank Him for guidance.

Heavenly Father, Your ways are not our ways, they are most perfect. We thank you for the priceless gift of salvation. Please give us patience to wait, knowing you will send the perfect person to lead us. We thank you for Rev. Sue and Pastor Peter to encourage us while we wait. We are your family, your church. We wait with thanks.In Jesus' name, Amen.

Carolyn Fetterly

December 7, 2011

Pencils

Scripture: Ephesians 2:10 For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Reflection: Not long ago I received this parable from a friend and want to pass it along, the parable of Pencils.

A pencil maker tells each of his pencils five important lessons just before putting them in the box.
1 Everything you do will leave always leave a mark.
2 You can always correct the mistakes you make.
3 What is important is what is inside you.
4 In life, you will undergo painful sharpening, which will only make you better.
5 To be the best pencil, you must allow yourself to be held and guided by the hand that holds you.

We all need to be constantly sharpened. This parable may encourage you to know that you are a special person, with unique God-given talents and abilities. Only you can fulfill the purpose which you were born to accomplish. Never allow yourself to get discouraged and think that your life is insignificant and cannot be changed and, like the pencil, always remember that the most important part of who you are is what's inside of you and then allow yourself to be guided by the hand of God.

Prayer: Lord, guide me to be the best that I can be. Amen.

Steve Lloyd

December 6, 2011

In a Manager

Luke 2: 6 and 7. And while they were there (Bethlehem), the time came for her to be delivered. And she gave birth to her first-born son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

A baby born in a manger? Jesus is our King, our Master, and our Lord. Aren't Kings, Masters, Lords born in fancy hospitals or palaces? What does it mean that our Lord was born in a barn?

A look at Jesus' three years of ministry may help us. He didn't get into politics. He didn't live in a mansion. He didn't have lots of money. What he did was cure the sick, give sight to the blind, and forgive people. He loved the poor and marginalized people. He talked with people about a God that communicated with the down-trodden.

What does it say to me? If I want to serve my Master, Jesus, then I must care for the sick, love the poor, and walk humbly with my Lord.

PRAYER: Lord, help me to see the poor and the marginalized people in my community. Help me to be of service to them by giving away clothes and food. Help me, Lord, to smile at others. Amen

Lois Coleman

December 5, 2011

Preparation for Advent

Isaiah 40:3 NIV. A voice of one calling: "In the desert prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the wilderness a highway for our God."
Matthew 3:3 NIV. "A voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord; make straight paths for him.'"

These words separated by more than 700 years of history are signals for the coming of Christ (Advent). Isaiah's words (~740 B.C.) originally comforted the nation of Israel, assuring them that their captivity in Babylon would end and they would return to their homeland. But John the Baptist (in Matthew 3:3) saw these same words as the signal to the world to prepare for Christ, the hope for salvation for Israel and for all humanity. Both scriptures were urging people to prepare by confessing their sins and living for God. Somehow the preparation for Advent that I think of, is to clean house, bake cookies and shop frantically. But the real meaning of Advent is to prepare to meet Jesus. Enough said.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father. Be with us as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Keep our hearts focused on the gift you have given us. Thank you for the life of Jesus that has given us a model to follow and the death of Jesus that has given us salvation. Amen.

Linda Shearman

December 4, 2011

Joy Rising

Scriptures: Luke 2:10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.

2 Corinthians 9:15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

Reflection: One of the new shows on Oprah Winfrey's network this fall is Oprah's Lifeclass. She remembers past episodes of her 25 seasons of The Oprah Winfrey Show and reflects on lessons learned. Each Friday the topic is "Joy Rising" and she remembers episodes that epitomize the joy of the situation. Many of them make you smile or even cry. When someone very deserving and unsuspecting gets a car or a house, you can see and feel their joy at the gift they were given.

Although we are not at all deserving, we also received an amazing gift. Our Heavenly Father loved us so much that he sent His Son to walk among us, show us God's love, and to sacrifice Himself for us. The miracle of Jesus should cause each of us to feel the joy rising in us each and every day.

Jesus paid a debt He didn't owe because we had a debt we couldn't pay. The punishment for sin is death and we deserve eternal punishment. Jesus took the punishment of sin for us. As we think about the miracle of the birth of Jesus, we should feel the joy rising in us and it should pour out of us.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, when we celebrate Christmas, we are celebrating your son Jesus, who is the expression of your lavish, amazing, divine love. As we experience the joy rising in us, may the love of Christ flow from each of us and onto others. Thank you for the most amazing gift we could ever receive. Amen.

Cindy Thomson

December 3, 2011

Joy that Lasts

Luke 2:8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. (KJV)

John 15:5,9&11 I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing...As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love...I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete. (NRSV)

James 4:8 Come close to God, and God will come close to you...(NLT)

Mark 4:18-20 And others are those sown among the thorns: these are the ones who hear the word, but the cares of the world, and the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things come in and choke the word, and it yields nothing. And these are the ones sown on the good soil: they hear the word and accept it and bear fruit...a hundredfold." (NRSV)

Galatians 5:22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control...(NLT)

On that Holy night many years ago, the shepherds were quietly keeping watch and abiding in their fields-with no distractions from the outside world. Their hearts were open, so the angels' good news of Jesus' birth fell on "good soil". In fact, they received the news with joy and rushed to see Jesus. Then they eagerly shared this news with everyone-glorifying and praising God.

In contrast, the angels' good news is "sown among the thorns" in my own heart. During Advent, I'm so anxious about having enough money and time to do everything that needs doing, that I find little joy. I may catch glimpses of joy in beautiful surroundings or moments, but it doesn't last. I need to find joy that lasts...instead of stress that lasts!

To find joy, we must quiet our lives and come close to Jesus-abiding in the "vine", abiding in his love. Like moving closer to a fire's glow to feel its warmth and comfort; we can move closer to Jesus by consistently meeting with Him in prayer and in His Word. The closer we move to Jesus, the more love and joy flows from the "vine" into our hearts. Then, like the shepherds, we'll feel compelled to share our love and joy with others. (Our "branches" will "bear fruit"!)

PRAYER: Dearest Jesus, forgive us for letting our anxiety overshadow our joy this Advent season. We want to abide in your love-and keep watch too. Help us keep our eyes, ears and hearts open and ready for the good news you're sending. Thank you for the warm glow of your joy in our hearts. We pray it will last...and the stress will fade away. Amen.

Sharon Irvin

December 2, 2011

Peace On Earth

Luke 2:13-14 " And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!'"

The Christmas Carol, "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day" expresses our emotions ranging from despair to hope. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote the words as a poem on Christmas Day in 1864. The poem was set to music in 1872 by an English organist, John Baptiste Calkin. (Others set the poem to other music after that.)

The carol's meaning is as relevant today as it was almost a century and a half ago. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote "Christmas Bells" while grieving the recent loss of his wife as the result of an accidental fire. Also, his oldest son, Lieutenant Charles Appleton Longfellow, had been severely wounded the previous November in the "Battle of New Hope Church" in the American Civil War. Charles had joined the Union cause as a soldier without his father's blessing. In a letter to his father, he had written, "I feel it to be my first duty to do what I can for my country and I would willingly lay down my life for it if it would be of any good."

I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

I thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And in despair I bowed my head:
"There is no peace on earth," I said,
"For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men."

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
"God is not dead, nor doth he sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail,
With peace on earth, good will to men."

Till, ringing singing, on its way,
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime,
Of peace on earth, good will to men!

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow pours out his hope for "peace on earth, good will to men" in the first two verses. His third stanza, gives expression to his despair. The fourth and fifth stanzas proclaim again his feelings of hope. Today, we too, struggle with the same feelings. We swing from hopeful to hopeless and back to hopeful. God is with us through all our ups and downs in our life journey.

Prayer: God, we seek your peace in our daily lives. We know you are with us today and always. Amen.

Lois Poppe

December 1, 2011

MAGIC TIME

Scripture: For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government will be upon his shoulder, and his name will be called "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

Message: Remember the magic? Remember how the Christmas season felt, and tasted, and looked, and smelled, and sounded, when we were children? Even modest preparations and festivities were awe-inspiring, because they were so special. We knew it, and those around us knew it. If we have lost that wonder to practical adult concerns about the state of the world (what to do about the war in the Middle East?) or schedule (will we get everything done in time?) perhaps we can redeem it by an effort of our own will.

After all, look at what we have to work with: the mighty message of Christmas is the coming of God's son to live among us. How can that be overwhelmed by ephemeral concerns such as dissension in and among governments, economic instability and inequality, and a long list of concerns? Think back to other Christmases, such as those during World War II, when families were separated and some in danger of annihilation. We've come through worse than today's woes. Change is all around us, but the magnificence of Isaiah's message is the same today as it has always been. This is the season of Joy! The magnitude of what we celebrate - the birth of God's son - takes precedence over all else. Let's listen again to the scripture that found a home in Handel's The Messiah, experience the Christmas season through all five of our senses, reflect on the meaning of the season, and reclaim the magic!

Closing Prayer: Praise be for the eternal marvels that never change, such as the atory of the birth of God's son, that are today as wonder-full as the first time we heard them. Forgive us for whatever grown-upness has sometimes caused us to forget to be awed at what is truly awesome. Amen.

Ruth Ann Lyness

November 30, 2011

JOY

When they saw the star, they were filled with joy. Matthew 2:10

REFLECTION: When Advent- the waiting days before Christmas- is approaching, I think of the little word, joy. It is the joy of Jesus' birth in the stable and the joy of what Jesus brought to each of us.

God sent Jesus to be born in the manger to save each of us. We can have joy every day when we remember that God gave us a loving Savior who takes our sins away. We have to make room for that joy in our hearts. Advent is a time to remember and renew in us, the joy of Jesus.

Joy came to the barn when Jesus was born
Joy came when they saw the star
Joy came to Bethlehem
Joy came to the world
Joy is here for each of us

PRAYER: Dear God, During this Advent time, help us find the joy that Jesus brought to each of us. Thank you for sending your Son, Jesus so we can have joy. Amen

Susan Taylor

November 29, 2011

Great and small

Ephesians 5: 20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of Lord Jesus Christ.

During this time of the year we are so aware that thanks should be given to God often and with heartfelt feeling. Thanksgiving has just occurred. Thanks is given on that day for the bounty of the past year. We know that the celebration of Christ's birth is just around the corner and we have begun preparations for this wonderful and great event. Joy and thanks are very evident.

One of my assignments as a member of the church's GROW committee is to contact members of the congregation and ask them to act as a greeter before a Sunday service. Timing can often be quite important. One knows not to call during and around the hours of a Nebraska football game. You try to avoid dinner time. Many families are gone during the daytime. Cell phones and answering machines are another consideration. One does not know if the other church member is waiting to see a name or hear part of your message before deciding whether to answer. Recently I sat down with my list of members and their phone numbers. One person after another answered the phone and said "Yes, I believe that will work". In one evening all the blanks on my list were filled in. I felt as though I had been given a lovely gift and gave thanks to God several times that evening. It was a small gift but meaningful to me. God gives us many gifts throughout the year and he deserves a prayer of thanks for each one.

Prayer: Dear Father, we send you our thanks for each and every gift, great and small, that you bestow on us. We do this in Christ's name. Amen.

Carol Budka

November 28, 2011

Luke 2:10-11 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of Divid a Savior has been born to you: he is Christ the Lord."

Often the meaning of the Nativity story is missed altogether. It is seen as a story about many different things -- about babies, about birth, about caring for the poor, etc. All of these are related themes. The angels referred to it as a message of "good news" --a gospel. And it is for ALL the people!! The Christmas good news is of timeless and universal importance. And it revolves around the identity of the baby that was born.

How do we know the story is not about Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, or the angels? We know because of God's word. It is a message of hope --"great joy". It is a message for all -- "the people". It is a message of rescue --"a Savior". And we can follow it through the scriptures: in the prediction of the birth (prophecy), the pronouncement at the birth (angels), the phenomenon of the birth (virgin birth), and the purpose of the baby (a Savior).

It is a message from God: "Christ the Lord." It is about Jesus the deliverer of His people. As we come to this Christmas season, let us take time to think about the true meaning of Christmas in the message from God and then respond. If the story involves the theme of God reaching out to man, then we must respond.

Prayer: Lord, let us take time this season to dwell in and on your word. Open our hearts and minds to hear what you want us to hear and to respond to you. Amen

Marilyn (Jones) Albin

November 27, 2011

SCRIPTURE: Luke 2:4-7 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

REFLECTION: When you picture the birth of Jesus, do you picture Mary in an immaculate gown and Joseph with his beard all trimmed and Jesus sleeping in a clean barn or stable? Then think of how you feel when you stop late after traveling all day. I bet it is not exactly clean and perfect. Jesus came into our dirty world in a dark and probably dirty place, but he brought a light into our world. As we prepare to celebrate his birth, let us let his light shine through us to brighten the world around us.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your son to chase the dark from our world. Let us reflect that light to bring light to those who are in need. Amen

Jan Mitchell

November 26, 2011

DEVOTION Thankful All of the Time?

SCRIPTURE: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 "In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." .

Romans 8:28"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose."

MEDITATION: Now that's a tall order!-- Giving thanks in everything? Things don't always seem to turn out the way we would like. In fact, sometimes it is difficult to find
anything positive in a situation! In those times, we need to shift our focus from our problems to God, who is in control of the universe and mindful even of such a tiny part of it as we are. He is all-wise, all-powerful, and he loves us. When we think about it, his record over the years in each of our lives is impressive-giving us strength and guidance in times of distress. Not the least of the benefits of trusting him is the peace of mind it brings us. Through it all, and in our present circumstances, we need to focus on God's guiding hand and render due thanks and gratitude to him. Not just at Thanksgiving; not just in times of abundant harvest, but all year round, in every situation.

PRAYER: Our Father, How often we forget to turn to you until our fortunes have hit rock bottom. Help us to remember the many times in our lives when your guiding hand has lifted us up and brought us through tough times. We are thankful that you are our God, and we give you thanks for what you do for us--in whatever situation we find ourselves. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Keith M. Heim.

November 25, 2011

TITLE: Great and small

SCRIPTURE: Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5: 20

REFLECTION: During this time of the year we are so aware that thanks should be given to God often and with heartfelt feeling. Thanksgiving has just occurred. Thanks is given on that day for the bounty of the past year. We know that the celebration of Christ's birth is just around the corner and we have begun preparations for this wonderful and great event. Joy and thanks are very evident.

PRAYER: Dear Father, we send you our thanks for each and every gift, great and small, that you bestow on us. We do this in Christ's name. Amen.

Carol Budka

November 24, 2011

TITLE: GOD'S PROMISE TO US

SCRIPTURE: Romans 1:16. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto Salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

Ecclesiastes 3:11. God has planted eternity in the human heart.

Abraham Lincoln once said, "Surely God would not have created such a being as man to exist only for a day!! No, no, man was made for immortality."

We live on this earth at the most 90 to 100 years, and then our time on earth is over. But what a wonderful gift God has given us, when he promises that we can join him in Paradise. He says, "In my Father's house are many mansions, if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you....."

It troubles us to think about death, and we wonder if our loved ones will be in Heaven, or if we will recognize them when we see them. We don't know the answers to all these puzzling questions. But, all these thoughts lead us to conclude that this life is not all there is. God has a bigger plan for us. He wants us to join him...to leave our "tents" on earth, and go to live in the "house" of God.

Every All Saints Day, Eastridge Church remembers the friends and families who have gone to be with the Lord in the past year. I think of many who are dear to me...Ravera Edwards, Laura Young, Herb Young, Evelyn and Olin Morris, Helen Eastlack, Peggy Westmoreland, and many others. We thank you for their wonderful Christian lives. We won't forget them.

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you so much for your "Blessed Assurance" that we belong to you, and that you have a Heavenly Home waiting for us when our lives on this earth are over. Help us to live up to your expectations of us, and not disappoint you. In Jesus' name. Amen

Gerry Draney

November 23, 2011

TITLE: I am Thankful to be a Husker this Thanksgiving

SCRIPTURE: ...How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you. Isaiah 30:19 ...while they are still speaking I will hear. Isaiah 65:24

‘He will command the angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands' Matthew 4:6 Humble yourself before the Lord and he will lift you up. James 4:10

REFLECTION: This is what my neighbor said, "I have never been prouder to be a Husker." The football players took a knee and Ron Brown prayed. You could feel the tension leaving the field immediately. You knew the game was going to be a great one, hard fought from both sides, with each having a chance to win the game.

In the important things in life, everyone on the field and the television audience for the Penn State game on November 12, 2011 against the Nebraska Huskers was a winner. There couldn't have been a better start to the game. After the prayers it was okay to start playing. You could see the players, coaches and fans were lifted up by God's angels.

God prepared Nebraska for this moment long ago. He was there when we started praying after the games. He was there when Ron was fired and hired back. Our team had what was needed on that field on that day. How great is our God!

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for allowing your goodness to be demonstrated throughout our country on national TV. It was a great reminder to all that prayer is the answer when things go terribly wrong. May this be the start of our nation turning back to you. Amen.

Sandra Hilsabeck

November 22, 2011

DEVOTION: Thankful All of the Time?

SCRIPTURE: 1 Thessalonians 5:18. "In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

Romans 8:28 "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose."

MEDITATION: Now that's a tall order!-- Giving thanks in everything? Things don't always seem to turn out the way we would like. In fact, sometimes it is difficult to find anything positive in a situation! In those times, we need to shift our focus from our problems to God, who is in control of the universe and mindful even of such a tiny part of it as we are. He is all-wise, all-powerful, and he loves us. When we think about it, his record over the years in each of our lives is impressive-giving us strength and guidance in times of distress.

Not the least of the benefits of trusting him is the peace of mind it brings us. Through it all, and in our present circumstances, we need to focus on God's guiding hand and render due thanks and gratitude to him. Not just at Thanksgiving; not just in times of abundant harvest, but all year round, in every situation.

PRAYER: Our Father, How often we forget to turn to you until our fortunes have hit rock bottom. Help us to remember the many times in our lives when your guiding hand has lifted us up and brought us through tough times. We are thankful that you are our God, and we give you thanks for what you do for us--in whatever situation we find ourselves. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Keith M. Heim.

November 21, 2011

Kindness

Scripture: Psalm 36:7 How precious is your kindness, O God! And the children of men take refuge in the shadow of your wings.

I was bouncing around on the internet today looking for ideas to write about for my November 13th devotion and noted that apparently November 13th is "World Kindness Day". The purpose of World Kindness Day is to look beyond ourselves, beyond the boundaries of our country, beyond our culture, our race, our religion; and realize we are citizens of the world.

I guess when I think about kindness I don't feel like we should have to look beyond our religion. Didn't Jesus teach us that as Christians we should be kind to others? Is this something we should be striving to do on a single day because someone thought it would make a novel holiday?

We can have such a profound impact on others' lives by simply being kind. A friendly smile, a thoughtful comment, an acknowledgement of another's worth: all of these can turn someone's day around.
Dear Lord, help me to be a kind person every day. Help me to recognize what a huge impact I can have with others just by being kind to them. In Jesus name I pray. Amen!

David Pinkerman

November 19, 2011

TITLE: The Game

SCRIPTURE: 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 (NIV) Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.

REFLECTION: Our nation is somewhat obsessed with sports. We make athletes into idols and worship them; at least when they're playing well. When they let us down by not winning for our team, we criticize them without end. We hold them to high standards, and at times, we are disappointed in their behavior.

Two recent incidents have brought unwanted attention to athletics. The scandal at Penn State is still unfolding at this writing. The coach and university president have been fired, and students have rioted in the streets. There may be more fallout. But we do know that many individuals have been hurt by the actions of a few. Closer to home, we've been observers of the increased publicity that a local athlete gets when she has an error in judgment. Opinions are divided: some believe she received better treatment because of her status as an athlete, and others believe she was subjected to more harsh treatment based on her position.

Whatever our opinion is about the status of sports in today's society, we can probably agree that many athletes are to be admired for their dedication to working their hardest to be the best. We can apply those standards to ourselves, whether or not we are athletes. Each of us can also dedicate ourselves to being the kind of person God wishes us to be.

Grantland Rice, a 20th-century sportswriter, penned a poem called "Alumnus Football." It includes the following verse:
"For when the One Great Scorer comes
To mark against your name,
He writes -- not that you won or lost --
But how you played the Game."

God is watching us every second of every day, but He's not keeping track of whether we win or lose. Let's strive daily to ensure that God can see and appreciate how we lived our lives, and how we "played the Game."

PRAYER: Dear God, We ask your forgiveness for the times we've let our ardor for sports get the best of us. Help us to remember that you are the Great Scorer who knows how the Game ends. And help us to keep our focus on running the race so that we can earn a crown that will last forever.

Robin Hadfield

November 18, 2011

Ephesians 5:20 giving thanks always and for everything in God the father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

I keep a gratitude journal. A friend suggested that I use the alphabet when I'm having difficulties figuring out what is on my gratitude list for the day. Today I am grateful for:

A - Apples, especially dipped in caramel!
B - Beauty (have you seen the sunrise or set recently?!)
C - Courage
D - Dogs
E - Employment
F - Fellowship with friends
G - (my) Garrison heritage
H - Hansens (my dear friends Lin and John)
I - Ice cream
J - Jesus
K - K-Love Radio Station
L - Love
M - My Marriage
N - Nebraska
O - Opportunities to do God's will
P - Pastor Peter
Q - Quilts
R - Recovery
S - Stephen Ministry
T - Toilet Paper
U - Umbrellas
V - Violet (my mother-in-law)
W - Winter (it makes me appreciate the other seasons even more!)
X - X-rays
Y - Yellow
Z - Zoos

Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift, so I will stay in the present and appreciate my blessings!

Loving Father, Help me to slow down, look for and appreciate all that you have given me. Amen.

Barb Anderson

November 17, 2011

HUNGRY?

SCRIPTURE: "And Jesus said unto them, ‘I am the bread of life, he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth in me shall never thirst.'" (John 6:35 KJV)

REFLECTION: Have you ever met someone who was hungry for the gospel? One of my friends told me, when we first met, that she gave up her faith to marry the man she loves. Her husband of 40+ years is a nonbeliever

From time to time, we have discussed this. We have often talked about the possibility that she didn't give up her faith; she just gave up going to church. When we meet for coffee/tea each week, she asks me: "What did you talk about in your Tuesday morning bible study?" She is eager to know what scripture was discussed, what the leader taught us and what the class members had to say.

Not long ago, our class was studying the parables as written in the Book of Luke. My friend and I talked about what had been said in class regarding "The Prodigal Son." We decided we could both relate to the father in the story because as mothers we know that when a son or daughter comes home, it is one of the happiest days of our lives. She could relate to that idea because her youngest son had once been missing for over a year. She shared with me that when he returned no words were needed. They just stood and held each other.

"Perhaps you are really more like the Prodigal Son," I said, "Your Father is just waiting to hold you when you return." She didn't reply, but there were tears in her eyes when she smiled.

PRAYER: Thank You, Father, for the words of wisdom in the gospel and for the way they speak to our souls when we are hungry for You. Strengthen our faith, we pray, that when we are lost we might come to You and believe and never be hungry again. In Your Son, Jesus' precious name we pray. Amen.

Judy Welch

November 16, 2011

TITLE: Thanksgiving and Gratitude

SCRIPTURE: 1 Chronicles 16:34-36 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. Cry out, "Save us, O God our Savior; gather us and deliver us from the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy name, that we may glory in your praise." Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting.

REFLECTION: It is the season of giving-our church stewardship pledges, donation requests from the Lincoln Food Bank, City Mission and other worthy charities, and just yesterday I heard the first Salvation Army bell ringers. As Pastor Frazier-Koontz said in his recent sermon, we give as an act of thanksgiving and gratitude, as an act of commitment, and as an act of faith and faithfulness. We give back to God a small portion of all that he has given us. When we give, life's priorities are put in order.

PRAYER: (Blessed Be Your Name lyrics)

Blessed Be Your Name
In the land that is plentiful
Where Your streams of abundance flow
Blessed be Your name

Blessed Be Your name
When I'm found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed Be Your name

Every blessing You pour out
I'll turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name

Amen.

Cathy Schapmann

November 15, 2011

Harvest Time

Scripture: John 4: 36 Even now, the reaper draws his wages, even now he harvests the crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together.

Devotion: Bringing in the sheaves, bringing in the sheaves. What a wonderful song to listen to in our minds while we traveled along the road in Peru. For there on the land, tended by oxen were sheaves of many different kinds of grains.

Stepping back in time, my husband remembers the threshing machine and the sound and itching of the hard work involved. But each fall, now, we watch the huge combines go through the fields. Marching down many rows at a time, they harvest the grain and bring in the harvest. The harvest of the grain is much like the harvest of our lives in Christianity. We plant in our early life, we harvest what we have sowed, we give of our bountiful crop, in time and gifts to our church and others.

Christ said, "open your eyes, even now the reaper draws his wages, even now he harvests the crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together." As we celebrate the Thanksgiving season and then enter Advent, may we as sowers and reapers be glad together. May we celebrate family, friends and the season.

Prayer: Help us to appreciate our gifts, and to give of what we have to others. Amen

Carolyn F. Olsen

November 14, 2011

Scripture: "I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong- that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith." Romans 1: 11-12

Reflection: I am so grateful for the people and opportunities God provides for me to be encouraged in my faith. As I reflect over the past few months, I can visualize a flow chart of situations at Eastridge and beyond with God's hand touching each one.

Last summer, some of us on youth committee met several times to pray for our youth program and our church and from that came my involvement with the Confirmation program. Through my involvement with Confirmation, I've been lifted up by the church members who have willingly agreed to be mentors and speakers. In turn, these people encourage and help the young people who are just beginning to define their own belief systems. This past Sunday, I spent a couple of hours with some of the Confirmands and mentors walking in the Making Strides walk for Breast Cancer. We were on Danae Lorenzen's team and as we walked along, Danae encouraged me to do the youth pie fundraiser for one more year. "I'll do it with you, learn the ropes and then take over next year," she said. What a wonderful feeling to have someone who wants to see something that you started continue on, even when you are ready to call it quits. Each Wednesday night at 7:00, I am encouraged by the faith of several Eastridge members as we study the Bible and have thought-provoking discussions in room L-13. Several of these folks are the ones I was praying with last summer, bringing the flow chart full circle.

Isn't it an amazing thing to reflect on the flow chart of faith God provides for us? I am truly humbled by his steady and faithful hand as he walks alongside me each and every day.

Prayer: Thank you, dear Jesus, for being my steady, trustworthy, faithful friend.

Sandy Sunderman

November 12, 2011

Thanksgiving - Not Anxiety

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Phillipians 4:6

It is hard to follow the advice in this verse. Everyone I know is anxious today. People have lost jobs, medical expenses, repair bills, family members and friends are overseas, the entire world seems to be in turmoil. Even the church is in turmoil right now.

We are reminded to not be anxious. Instead, we need to take everything to the Lord in prayer. We should spend some extra time this Thanksgiving to remember what we should be thankful for. There will always be lots of reasons to be anxious, but maybe we can look on the bright side and be grateful for everything we do have.

Dear Lord, many people are feeling lost and lonely this year. We need to remember to present our requests to you, and present them with thankfulness. Amen

Laurie Schlitt

November 11, 2011

Title: Follow in my steps

Scripture: Hebrews 12; 1-3 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart

Reflection: Recently while we were on vacation in Yosemite my husband and I decided to take on a pretty challenging hike 2000 feet upward to a beautiful set of falls, and a lovely view of the surrounding Yosemite valley. Part of our reason for doing it was because of the beautiful view from there and, honestly, part of it was to prove we could do it.

By the time we were about 2/3 of the way up the steep path leading to the falls, things were becoming more challenging. The steps we had to take were steep. A drop over the side would be fatal, and there were no railings. Some people were making the decision to go no further. For a moment we thought that maybe we should just enjoy the falls from where we were rather than make the remainder of the climb to the top. At that juncture, I noticed a woman coming down from the top. She was silver-haired and used a walking stick. People were stopping to look at the woman working her way down. I know I wasn't the only one who was in awe. She was an inspiration to me because suddenly it was very clear that if I wanted to be where she is when I'm her age, I'd better keep going forward now. I took the next step forward, and then the next and the next, until we were at the top of the beautiful falls looking back down on our steep journey.

Throughout my life I've been blessed to have people whose faith I admired. I've thought, "Someday I hope my faith is that strong!" Well it's just like climbing a mountain - if I want my faith to be stronger in the future, I first need to take the next step and then the next and the next.

Prayer: Dear Lord and giver of all good things, During this month of Thanksgiving, I'm so thankful for those people in my life who have been models of the faith I hope to have someday. Thank you for placing me in their presence so that I can see You through them. For this an all your good gifts, I am so grateful. Amen

Lori Snyder-Sloan

November 10, 2011

TITLE: ROSH HASHANAH

SCRIPTURE: Micah 6:8: He has showed you, O man, what I good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. NIV

REFLECTION: Recently our Jewish friends celebrated Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. My daughter-in-law sent me the following in honor of the occasion... It was created by a woman who is a member of the Disciples Church and a Rabbi.

"Each year I grow a year older
Have I added maturity to age this year?
Have I become wiser since last year?
Will I be stronger in the year to come? Will I use my time better?
Where did the past year go? What can I remember of it?
Those daily irritations that so troubled me,
I cannot even remember them now.
What do I remember of last year?
What do I want for the coming year that will be worth remembering for next New Year?

PRAYER: If my life has become shallow, let me deepen it

If my principles have become shabby, let me repair them
If my ideals have become tarnished, let me restore them
If my hopes have become faded, let me revive them
If my loyalties have grown dim, let me brighten them
If my values have become confused, let me clarify them
If my purposes have become blurred, let me sharpen them
If my horizons have become contracted, let me widen them
If my heart has become chilled by indifference, let me warm it.

If I must face disappointment, help me learn patience
If I must face sorrow, help me find faith
If I must face pain, help me find strength
If I must face danger, help me find courage
If I must face failure, help me learn endurance
If I achieve success, help me learn gratitude
If I win praise, help me learn humility
If I attain prosperity, help me learn generosity

Whatever the New Year may bring, may I confront it honorably and faithfully. Amen.

Marie Fischer.

November 9, 2011

TITLE: Giving Thanks

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 100:4 Enter His gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.

Psalm 105:1 Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.

Colossians 3:17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

First Thessalonians 5:18 ....give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

REFLECTION: November is the special giving thanks month. In my younger years of life growing up in a small Nebraska rural community, the month of November was widely known as the giving thanks month. As I remember, all organizations in the community emphasized and instructed us to remember to give thanks for all that we have. Although it was stressed in November, of course, we were still encouraged to be thankful at all times.

Writers in the book of Psalms express so openly their thanks to God. David expecially pours out his true feeling reflecting his relationship with God and the need to thank God for so many blessings. In the many books of the New Testament that Paul has written, it seems to me that one of his main messages is his constant reminders and encouragement to the people to give thanks to God. Giving thanks to God is not something God asks us to give because He needs to receive it, but that we need to give it. Giving thanks is one of the most joy-producing acts we can perform.

In exasmining the Bublical writings such as David and Paul, perhaps we too can find the example of giving thanks for us to do likewise. With such Biblical leaders as examples, we, as Christians, should give sincere thanks as a daily practice in our lives, too. Let each of us be that example in our families so that others also follow David and Paul's guidance in always remembering God with thanks for His many blessings in our lives!

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, accept our humble thanks for the many blessings that You have presented to us. May we strive to turn to You each day recognizing from where our gifts really come. Amen

Lauren Holcombe

November 8, 2011

THANKSGIVING

Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Psalm 95:2 Let us come before Him with thanksgiving.

REFLECTION: When I look back on this year, I have so many prayers of thanksgiving: our friend Baw Moo got a cancer- free declaration after months of chemo, radiation, and prayer; our precious great-granddaughter, Hannah is home after weeks recovering from cardiac arrest in Childrens Hospital and is gaining every day; EPC, after the double sadness of seeing our pastors move on, is moving forward as a healing church body.

I am so grateful for our faithful staff, who are doing a great job, keeping us on an even keel; I am very grateful for the members of EPC who have stepped up to share their time and gifts on our committees and boards. I'm grateful for those who have prayerfully made their pledges. I loved to see two hundred members take the time to assist the APNC in creating a new mission study in preparation for seeking our new pastors,thank you.

I am so grateful for Pastor Peter Frazier-Koonz who did double, even triple duty for weeks. I am grateful that Rev. Sue Coller has come to lead us through the next months of remembering we are still Eastridge Presbyterian Church, that God has not forgotten us.

HEAVENLY FATHER,We praise you for being such an awesome God. We thank you for being ever present with us in celebration of good times and in comfort during hard times and in peace in what could be anxious times. Please forgive our sins and help us be willing to ask for and follow your guidance. We come before you with thanksgiving. We pray in Jesus' name, Amen

Carolyn Fetterley

November 7, 2011

Title: No Bystanders

Scripture: Ephesians 4: 11-12 And he gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, unto the work of ministering, unto the building up of the body of Christ.

Reflection: By the time you get to read this an entire month will have passed, so let me refresh your memory. Rev. Steiner's sermon was titled "Throw in Your Stone". During the whole sermon I kept going over the Gospel Lesson from Ephesians. A gospel reading had never struck me like this before. So I came home and looked up the verses in several different Bible versions to be sure I had truly heard what I thought I heard, and had understood the meaning. I believe I did.

The gifts Jesus gave the Church are us, all of us. We are to "work" so that the body of Christ may be built up. Going to church on Sunday, attending a study class now and again is fine, but it does not end there. We all have been given a gift by Jesus, there are no bystanders is what I heard in Ephesians 4: 11. Some apostles; some prophets; some teachers and so on, it did not say to a few. God's people were all given gifts and we need to put them to work to build up the body of Christ. We are all to do our part.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to use Christ's gift to build your Church, here and around the world. Amen

Steven Lloyd

November 5, 2011

TITLE: Encouraging Others

SCRIPTURE: Hebrews 4:2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 10:24 Let us not give up meeting together...but let us encourage one another. Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or
praiseworthy, think on these things.

REFLECTION; I consulted the internet and found "10 Bible verses about encouraging others." A friend sent me the following story:

One day a teacher asked her students to list the names of the other students in the room on two sheets of paper, leaving one space between each name. Then she told them to think of the nicest thing they could say about each of their classmates and write it down. It took the remainder of the class period to finish their assignment, and as the students left the room, each one handed in his or her paper. That Saturday, the teacher wrote down the name of each student on a separate sheet of paper, and listed what everyone else had said about that individual. On Monday she gave each student his or her list. Before long, the entire class was smiling. ‘Really?' she heard whispered , ‘I never knew that I meant anything to anyone!' and, ‘I didn't know others liked me so much,' were most of the comments. No one ever mentioned those papers again. She never knew if they discussed them after class or with their parents, but it didn't matter. The exercise had accomplished its purpose. The students were happy with themselves and with each one another. Several years later, one of the students was killed in Vietnam and his teacher attended the funeral. The church was packed with his friends. One by one those who loved him took a last walk by the coffin. The teacher was the last one to bless his life. As she stood there, one of the soldiers who acted as pallbearer came up to her. ‘Were you Mark's teacher?' he asked. She nodded: ‘yes.' Then he said: ‘Mark talked about you a lot.' After the funeral, most of Mark's former classmates went together to a luncheon. Mark's mother and father were there, obviously waiting to speak with his teacher. ‘We want to show you something, his father said, taking a wallet out of his pocket. ‘They found this on Mark when he was killed. We thought you might recognize it.' Opening the billfold, he carefully removed two worn pieces of notebook paper that had obviously been taped, folded and refolded many times. The teacher knew without looking that the papers were the ones on which she had listed all the good things each of Mark's classmates had said about him. ‘Thank you so much for doing that,' Mark's mother said. ‘As you can see, Mark treasured it.' All of Mark's former classmates started to gather around. Charlie smiled rather sheepishly and said, ‘I still have my list. It's in the top drawer of my desk at home. Chuck's wife said,'Chuck asked me to put his in our wedding album.' ‘I have mine too,' Marilyn said, ‘It's in my diary.' Then Vicki, another classmate, reached into her wallet and showed her worn and frazzled list to the group. ‘I carry it with me at all times,'Vicki said without batting an eyelash, she continued. ‘I think we all saved our lists.' That's when the teacher finally sat down and cried. She cried for Mark and for all his friends who would never see him again'

PRAYER: O God of Love, help us to encourage each other. It takes so little to do so and it means so much. Let our words and deeds be kind and loving in all that we do. In the name of Him who modeled kindness and love. Amen.

Marie Fischer

November 4, 2011

Topic: Strive to be a humble servant leader

Scripture: Ephesians 6:6 "Don't just do what you have to do to get by, but work heartily, as Christ's servants doing what God wants you to do. And work with a smile on your face, always keeping in mind that no matter who happens to be giving the orders, you're really serving God." (The Message)

Jesus Christ is the ultimate model for each and every aspect of our lives. One of the most important lessons to be learned from his example is servant leadership. To think that the Almighty God would humble himself to serve his followers is almost unthinkable. But that is what Jesus did.

Each of us can think of many instances of Christ as a humble servant leader. We picture him on his knees washing his disciples' feet. He never turned anyone away who needed healing. When absolutely exhausted, he preached and even fed the masses. He willingly took the cross and asked God to forgive his enemies. He didn't just call us to serve only those who are in our church or who are like us. He wants us to serve everyone; even our enemies.

Our God could have lived in a mansion on the hill with angels and servants waiting on him hand and foot. Instead he lived as a migrant preacher so that we might know the truth and catch a glimpse of who he really is. The appropriate response is for us to follow his example and apply it to our own leadership style, whether we lead a business, a small group, a family, or simply our friends. Each of us has a burden of influence and we are entrusted to be faithful stewards of this and each of our talents.

We are called to humble ourselves and serve those who enter our sphere of influence. By rolling our sleeves up and investing in the lives of others, we communicate true caring and concern. We can help people grow in faith and in turn, they help us to grow. Remember that being a servant needs to come first; being a leader is secondary.

Let us be more intentional in our service to others. Let's thank and praise those who assist us. Let's catch up with friends who may need support. Be there to chat with someone who looks like they need a friend. Remember to bring the shoe boxes or towels when they are requested. Make it clear to each and every person that you will be there for them and that you truly want to serve.

Prayer: Father, we thank you for the perfect model of compassion, humility, love, and service in your son Jesus Christ. Help each of us to have the desire and the wisdom to live our lives by his perfect example. Give us the strength to humbly lead and serve the people in our lives with whom you have blessed us. Amen.

Cindy Thomson

November 3, 2011

TITLE: Firstfruits and Faith

SCRIPTURE: Leviticus 23:9-14 The LORD said to Moses, "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘When you enter the land I am going to give you and you reap its harvest, bring to the priest a sheaf of the first grain you harvest. He is to wave the sheaf before the Lord so it will be accepted on your behalf; the priest is to wave it on the day after the Sabbath. On the day you wave the sheaf, you must sacrifice as a burnt offering to the Lord a lamb a year old without defect, together with its grain offering of two-tenths of an ephah of the finest flour mixed with olive oil-a food offering presented to the Lord, a pleasing aroma-and its drink offering of a quarter of a hin of wine. You must not eat any bread, or roasted or new grain, until the very day you bring this offering to your God. This is to be a lasting ordinance for the generations to come, wherever you live. (NIV)

Proverbs 3:9-10 Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine. (NIV)

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

REFLECTION: The Festival of Firstfruits is described in verses from Leviticus. The Israelites were to present the first grain of the harvest to the Lord. Verses from Proverbs summarize the concept of giving firstfruits and cite the blessings that will be received by making the offering.

As we prayerfully consider how we will support the church and its mission in the coming year let us give in faith and honor the Lord with our firstfruits.

PRAYER:
We give thee but thine own,
Whate'er the gift may be;
All that we have is thine alone,
A trust, O Lord, from Thee.
May we Thy bounties thus
As stewards true receive,
And gladly, as Thou blessest us,
To Thee our firstfruits give.
From hymn by William W. How, 1858.

Gail Keown

November 2, 2011

TITLE: The Golden Rule

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 7:12 " In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets."
Luke 6:31 "Do to others as you would have them do to you."

REFLECTION: Almost everyone knows the above scriptures, often referred to as "The Golden Rule". It seems so simple. Yet following the Golden Rule each and every day can be a challenge. When driving around Lincoln, do we "do to other drivers" as we "would have other drivers do to us"? When we discipline a child, do we make sure to "do to the child" as we would want "a child or others to do to us"? When a telemarketer interrupts our dinner with their phone call, do we respond by "doing to the caller" as we "would have others do to us if we were the caller"?

To remind us to practice following the Golden Rule, Dorothy Chapman shared a suggestion in her devotion at the October Eastridge Presbyterian Women's gathering: For this one hour, I will follow the Golden Rule. Following the Golden Rule for this one hour can be a way to begin.

I recall as a child misquoting the Golden Rule: " Do to others as they do to you". My mother "set me straight" in a hurry. As children or at any age, we often want to do to others as they do to us. But that is not what Jesus taught and showed by example.

The Golden Rule is universal in the major religions of the world. It reminds us to hold the same standards for ourselves as we hold for others. The following gives a few examples of the Golden Rule in major religions:

Buddhism "Hurt not others with that which pains yourself."
Buddha Undanavarga 5:18

Confucianism "What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others."
Confucius Analects, 15:23

Islamism "No one of you is a believer until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself."
Mohammed: Traditions

Judaism "And thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."
Leviticus 19:18

The Golden Rule is a uniting force for all religions.

PRAYER: God, we seek to practice the Golden Rule. We ask for your direction and support each day as we attempt to live as you would have us live. Amen.

Lois Poppe

November 1, 2011

FAITH

SCRIPTURE: Hebrews 11: 1 Faith makes us sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

REFLECTION: Last Sunday I did the Children's Moment at the 11:00am worship service. The scripture was a verse from the scripture read in the worship service. I searched in some of my Children's Moments books and adapted for the Children's Moment. The book used was ‘Strong and Simple Messages for Children's Ministry' by Ruth Reazin.

I started by saying we were going to try a little experiment. I had blown up a balloon and I said we were going to pass it, without touching it, by blowing the balloon. It sort of worked. We could see our mouth's blowing to keep it up and the balloon moving, but not our breath. It usually is hard to believe in things we can't see and we could not see our breath.

I asked the question "Can you think of something you can't see but you have faith in?" One child answered God. The next question was "Why do we have faith in God?" I held up the Bible to answer that question.

I told them, you had faith that your breath would move the balloon because you could see the balloon moving. We can have faith in God even though we can't see God, because we can see God working in our LIVES and in our CHURCH.

When we have faith in God, God can use us to do great things. Remember the way your invisible breath controlled the balloon. Even though we can't see God, we have faith that God is in control of our lives. We also have faith that God hears our prayers, so let's now pray and thank God.

PRAYER God, thank you for listening to us and always being near us, even though we can't see you. Help us have faith in you and believe that you're in control of our lives. Even when things seem scary, we want to put our faith in you. Amen

Susan Taylor

October 31, 2011

TEMPTATION

1 Corinthians 10: 12-13 (NCV) If you think you are strong, you should be careful not to fall. The only temptation that has come to you is that which everyone has. But you can trust God, who will not permit you to be tempted more than you can stand. But when you are tempted, he will also give you a way to escape so that you will be able to stand it.

I was dog sitting for Sadie the last weekend of September and I thought of the many times she has made me laugh, but still has that innocent look. Sadie likes to get one of her treats and then sit beside me in my chair. Her usual routine is to drop the treat on the chair near her, but keep an eye on her treat and me. I'm sure Sadie thinks I will want her treat. After several minutes, Sadie must decide she can eat her treat without any competition.

This caused me to reflect on the temptations we face on a daily basis. The comfort is knowing that God is always with us when we keep our eyes focused on Him.

Dear Heavenly Father, I ask that you will watch over me when I fall into temptation's path. Amen.

Dee Ann Dilley

October 29, 2011

Listen

Acts 28: 27 For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.

My children like to tease me about my ever growing, "loss" of hearing. I hear loud and clear, things like, "Good grief mom, is the television turned up loud enough???" I know I need to have people repeat part, if not all, of a sentence sometimes. So, I have naturally started getting closer to the people I visit with...proximity wise.

But something happens when you have to listen closely to people, you have to really try to hear them, and then sometimes in your nearness and quietness, in the posture of really trying to hear someone...you do. Sometimes you might be close to relating, understanding....or....caring.

Why would Paul want his audience to see with their eyes, to hear with their ears, and understand with their hearts??? Because that would mean they had leaned in enough to their Savior to really hear, see and feel the very heart of Him. Their proximity to a relationship with Christ would be real and then possibly they could lean in for others, see others and understand the heart of others, maybe drawing them closer to Jesus.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for the many ways we can see you, hear you and feel your love. Help us to lean in close with prayer, worship, and the study of your word. Give us an ear to hear the hurting hearts and to show the strength of vision, hearing and understanding one can have in a relationship with you. Amen.

Kathy Rangel

October 28, 2011

SCRIPTURE: All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his lips. "Isn't this Joseph's son?" they asked. Luke 4:22

All the people in the synagogue were furious when they heard this. Luke 4:29

REFLECTION: Jesus' ministry was usually marked by an odd mixture of reception and rejection. This mix happens early in His ministry. Today we also see people wanting to embrace Jesus.......but frustrated by something about Him. In Luke 4 (and in the same account in Mark 6 and Matt. 13), we see a varied response of the people in their reaction to Jesus. They may respond with curiosity, appreciation, offense, objection, etc. When we talk to people about Jesus today we can expect some of the same responses. However, we still need to talk to people about Jesus even if they do object.

We need to be careful in responding to objectors. Objectors may like the Jesus figure, but object to his message. They do not necessarily want their objections answered. And they do not always think through their objection. But we do need to talk to them.

Our pastor gave us some suggestions in responding to objections. Our answers may not make a difference and we will need to accept this. Some walked away from Jesus. Instead of answering objections quickly, try to engage in a conversation with them. Then ask, ask, ask questions and then listen, listen, listen. We can learn so much and then better answer them or share with them. Compliment any response with a personal testimony can often be helpful. And "pray". Conversation is not just the result of an argument won but it may be a seed planted for that person or objection.

PRAYER: Lord, often being a Christian takes time, patience, asking and listening. Letting a person know that they are important to us and to you is often needed. Let us grow in this area of response to others. You can show us the way. Amen

Marilyn (Jones) Albin

October 27, 2011

TITLE: Wait for the Lord

SCRIPTURES: Isaiah 40:31 But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] shall change and renew their strength and power; they shall lift their wings and mount up [close to God] as eagles [mount up to the sun]; they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint or become tired. (AMP)

Psalm 40:1-2 I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along. (NLT)

Psalm 130:5-6 I wait for the Lord, I expectantly wait, and in His word do I hope. I am looking and waiting for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning, I say, more than watchmen for the morning. (AMP)

Romans 12:11-12 ...Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don't quit in hard times; pray all the harder. (MSG)

Hebrews 10:23-25 Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. (NLT)

REFLECTION: I've felt discouraged, sad and even a little confused about what's been going on in our church. I knew it would be difficult after Pastor Jim left, but didn't realize how deeply it would affect our church. We've lost not only two wonderful pastors, but also several long-time members. Although I don't fully understand why they left, I'm trying not to focus on it too much-hopefully they had good reasons. Instead, I'm trying to focus on healing and moving on. (I'm thankful for the Interim Pastors, staff and guest speakers who are helping us do just that.)

Although I'm distressed now, I have hope that things will eventually get better. I remember when Pastor Mike left, I also felt sad and discouraged. I didn't think we could possibly find someone to adequately replace him. However, I tried to wait patiently and expectantly to see whom God would bring us...and he didn't disappoint. Just look at how he blessed our church through Pastor Jim! I believe that God will come through for us again. Jeremiah 3:15 says, " I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding."

The lesson we must learn in our church, and in our own lives as well, is to "wait for the Lord". When things are difficult, we must pray hard-patiently trusting in God's help and holding on to hope...and each other. When we do, we can be assured he'll strengthen, encourage and heal us. Those of us remaining at Eastridge must stand strong together, continuing to do the work God has called us to do. Hebrews 10:24-25 suggests, we should "think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works", keep worshiping together, and "encourage one another". I can't wait (but I guess I'll have to) to see how God will bless our congregation.

PRAYER: God of Hope, forgive us for becoming discouraged when life becomes difficult. Help us remember to wait patiently and expectantly for your help. And thank you for the many ways you send us strength, encouragement and healing. Amen.

Sharon Irvin

October 26, 2011

SCRIPTURE: Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."

REFLECTION: I have been inundated with costs this year, but have not had an increase in income. At one point I worried where I would get the cash to pay the roofers. The new furnace and heat pump had me at a new low in my bank account. At another point I was called by the bank saying they had moved over some funds to my checking account to cover the checks I wrote to the federal government for taxes.

I have back up funds. I have investments and income. Nebraska is one of the states least affected by the economy. What, I wonder, do the people do that don't have the resources I have? What do the people do that live in the states with worse economy than Nebraska?

PRAYER: I pray Lord those who are struggling to make their house payment or pay their bills may set their hopes on you. I ask you to help them recognize they can come to you for what they need as you always give graciously. Help them not to give in to evil desires. Help me Lord to be as holy as I can be and not give in to frustration. Help me turn to you. In Jesus name, Amen.

Sandra Hilsabeck

October 25, 2011

TITLE: How Presbyterian is this?

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 25:34-35 Then the King will say to those at his right hand, ‘Come, O blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food...'

REFLECTION: A couple weeks ago I was in the express line at the grocery store "twenty items of less". As I put my few items on the conveyor I noticed the man behind me in line. He had ten jars of jelly and ten bags of sugar. I thought, "What an odd combination, sugar is needed to make jelly, but if you are buying jelly why do you need all that sugar? I was amazed and amused to read in the bulletin the next Sunday that the first two items listed for food pantry needs were jelly and sugar. I realized that it was time for me to donate to the pantry.

PRAYER: Thank you, Lord for sending me the sign I needed to do your will. Amen

Kathy Kuehn

October 24, 2011

TITLE: THE BEAUTY AROUND US

SCRIPTURE: PSALMS 24: 1, 2. The world and all that is in it belong to the Lord; the earth and all who live on it are his. He built it on the deep waters beneath the earth, and laid its foundation in the ocean depths.

PSALMS:19:1. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament showeth his handiwork.

Every year I marvel at the beauty of Nebraska in the autumn. I can't imagine living in a place where there is no change of seasons. Today I saw beautiful ash trees brilliantly yellow. beside gorgeous red sumac. And, the grass is still green, and the flowers are still blooming. As John Keats wrote: A thing of beauty is a joy forever; it's loveliness increases; it will not pass into nothingness."

When I see the big bins of pumpkins, the turning of the leaves, and all the beauty of a Nebraska autumn, I know that there is a God, and that he made all these things.

And the October night sky is very beautiful, too. This year we have really had a lot of "October's bright blue weather." It's been a lovely fall.

The beautiful old hymn "For The Beauty Of The Earth" puts it very well, I think:

"For the beauty of the earth, For the Glory of the skies,
For the love which from our birth Over and around us lies,
Lord of all, to Thee we raise
This our hymn of grateful praise."

PRAYER: Dear Lord, we thank you for the beauty you have sent into our lives. We are touched and grateful that you love us, that you created us and that you made all this for us to enjoy. AMEN

Gerry Draney

October 22, 2011

Our Help Comes from God

"I will lift up my eyes to the hills-where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth" Psalm 121: 1-2 (NIV)

Our help truly comes our Lord. This has been especially true for me this past week when I was called to North Carolina on Friday, October 14 because my brother was critically ill. When my husband and I arrived shortly after 8:00 that evening, my brother was nonresponsive and I stood by his hospital bed for a long time talking to him. It felt as if we were having a conversation as we had so often by phone, although he was not able to respond with words. I felt God giving me help at that time, and I could feel His presence telling me to remain calm, that everything would be fine, regardless of what happened, that my brother was indeed in His hands and in His care.

The next morning at 6:15, we received a telephone call where we were staying saying that my brother had just died. I felt the presence of God throughout the weekend as we greeted people whom we had not seen in a very long time and family members whom we see only once or twice each year. Throughout the funeral process, I felt God's presence in giving me help as we comforted one another within our family and friends. So, when we ask the question, "Where does my help come from?" I know that my help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth."

When have you been in a situation where you felt God's intense presence with you? What occurred that caused you to know that God was helping you? How did you respond to His presence and help? I hope that you know and feel the presence of God, knowing that your help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

Our Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us the help that we need at all times. You truly are the Maker of heaven and earth. We will lift up our eyes to the hills to you, our Savior and Redeemer. Keep us, Guide us, Help us in all that we do and say. In Your name we pray. Amen

Linda Douglas

October 21, 2011

TITLE: 'Tis the Season

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 1:3
He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers.

REFLECTION: Just recently I've started seeing "signs of the season" leading up to Christmas. Many of us received an email about the Christmas Cantata practices starting in a couple of weeks, and some of us have received information about devotions for the Advent devotional booklet. Also, our pledges for next year will be due soon. This time of year always reminds me of the many gifts that each and every one of us brings to our church, be it singing, or writing devotions, and of course pledging for next year. It's the time of year that we especially give of our gifts because the Gift we get back every day of the year is our Lord Christ. So give freely this coming season. The Gift that we receive is truly priceless.

PRAYER: God, I give you great praise! Let me give freely of myself this coming season and always. Today, tomorrow, and in all things that I do. I ask for the grace that is only yours to give. Amen.

Greg Tubach

October 20, 2011

DEVOTION: In Time for Halloween

SCRIPTURE: 2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new."

Matthew 5:26 "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

MEDITATION: A woman was asked by a coworker, "What is it like to be a Christian?" The woman replied, "It is like being a pumpkin. God picks you from the patch, brings you in, and washes all the dirt off of you. Then He cuts off the top and scoops out all the yucky stuff. He removes the seeds of doubt, hate, and greed. Then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside of you to shine for all the world to see."

For some of us pumpkins, the carving takes a little longer than for others, but the end result is eternal.

PRAYER: Our Father, We would like to be like Jesus. Be patient with us when we depart from the plan you have prepared for us. Take away our sins and mold us and carve us into the image of your son, Jesus Christ so that we might glorify you on earth and in Heaven. In His name, Amen.

Keith M. Heim

October 19, 2011

TITLE: "We Seem to Forget"

SCRIPTURE: Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV) Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

REFLECTION: Several years ago, I attended the National Elders Conference of the Presbyterian Church (USA) in Nashville, Tennessee. At the meeting, I was fortunate to be able to meet Ann Weems, who is a Presbyterian poet and published author. She served on the committee that wrote The Brief Statement of Faith. Her work has often been published in Horizons, the magazine of the Presbyterian Women. Here is one of her poems:

"We Seem to Forget" by Ann Weems

What concerns me, what lies on my heart is this:
That we in the church -- papered and programmed,
Articulated and agenda'd-are telling the faith story all wrong.
Are telling it as though it happened two thousand years ago
Or is going to happen as soon as the church budget is raised.
We seem to forget that Christ's name is
Emmanuel, God With Us. . . .
Not just when he sat among us, but now;
When we can no longer feel the nailprints in his hands.

As Eastridge continues working through the transition of staff, it's important that we remember what the true purpose of the church is - to tell the faith story.

PRAYER: Dear God, As members of your church, we sometimes get wrapped up in the details of the organization, and "we seem to forget." Help us to keep our eyes on Jesus and the sacrifice he made for us.

Robin Hadfield

October 18, 2011

Becoming a partner with God: Behold the Humble Gourd

Proverbs 3: 5,6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and lean not into your own understanding, In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths.

Psalm 37:5 Commit your way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he will bring it to pass.

I love gourds. They are so colorful and no two are ever alike. Even the plain white ones have value - they make the yellow, orange and green ones look brighter. I like to display them in various places in my home and look at them when I walk by. I love it that my neighbors know that I grow them in my garden and wonder when I will be harvesting them and sharing them.

Planting a garden is an exercise in trusting God. When we plant seeds we are trusting that God will provide the elements to make the seeds sprout and turn into plants that will eventually give us that thing that we are hoping for and wanting. Even just the seed is an amazing gift from God.
Isn't it a wonderful thing to know that you become a partner with God when you plant a garden? When we see all that God has brought forth in our gardens we can humbly, and with grateful hearts, give him praise for the food and beauty that he has wrought.

Prayer Dear God, I feel close to You when I am in the garden. Thank you for all that you provide for us and help us to be mindful of these blessings. Thank you for bringing to fruition our seeds that we plant with such hope and anticipation. In all things we give you praise and trust that you hear each of our prayers.

Mary Lienemann

October 17, 2011

TITLE: PRAISES TO GOD

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 98:1 Sing to the Lord a new song, for HE has done marvelous things.

REFLECTION: Consider the ways we can tell our Lord of the Praise we have for him. We can support our Church in many and various ways, as our Church gives us many opportunities to use our God-given talents. First and foremost, we can pray for our Church, our Ministers, our Deacons and Elders, our Sunday school teachers, our session and session staffs, our Church staff, who give tirelessly of their time, our Stephen Ministers, and many more, who give daily of their time and talents. We can also share our many gifts, one being our monetary blessings to support and further the needs of our church and community. By doing these things we can honor and praise our Lord, and thank Him for the many daily blessings.

How will you choose to the Praise our Lord, this day?

PRAYER: Gracious Lord, thanks for the talents and gifts you have blessed us with, and help us to use these talents to Honor and Praise you as you continue to guide our lives and the lives of our church.

Shirley Flynn-Bell

October 15, 2011

SCRIPTURE: Philippians 1:3 I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy.

DEVOTION: One day in my flurry of fall cleaning, I looked out the window and decided that the cone head daisies needed their heads removed. After all, they looked a bit ragged and very dark. But as I prepared to do that job, I looked out the window and spied a small gold finch having a meal on the dark seed heads. Needless to say, the ugly seed heads remain and will remain through the winter for my feathered friends.

I couldn't help but think how the most ugly things in our lives could really be a part of our growth and development and feed our souls for the coming years. My mother died when I was in my 20's and not a day passes that I don't think of her. But her passing allowed me to become very close to my stern father and a much older sister. My mother had passed on to me a great faith and a lot of information about how to raise children, a love of reading, a way of doing things that need to be done, and also a caution for taking care of my health. She lectured me about judging people and trying to do my best to be friends to everyone. Probably not all of her lessons took root and grew but just remembering them makes me feel warm and loved inside.

Just as those ugly seed heads fed that small bird, God's love feeds our soul. Sometimes when ugly situations occur, we need to sit back with our judging and rest our eyes while saying a prayer. We have to remember the good and throw out the bad. We have to let God feed our souls.

Prayer: Lord be with us today as we remember with joy and love all of the people who have played a great part in our growth and development both mentally and physically. Amen

Carolyn F. Olsen

October 14, 2011

A "Fellowship of Kindred Minds?"

John 17:22-23a "The glory which Thou gavest me I have given to them, that they may be one, as we are one; I in them and Thou in me, may they be perfectly one..."

"Bless be the tie that binds our hearts in Christian love; the fellowship of kindred minds is like to that above." John Fawcett

The Associate Pastor Nominating Committee has just completed the survey and now we have to digest all the information we have received from the congregation and figure what it means. A quick scan of the pages and pages of responses confirms to me something I have always suspected: there is a lot more diversity in this congregation that meets the eye. Items that appeared in the top five priorities on some surveys were listed among the bottom five on others.

How do Christians handle differences of opinion about the church? Not very well. I count over seventy different Christian denominations in the yellow pages of the Lincoln telephone book. Jesus may have had a premonition this would happen when he prayed that his disciples would be "perfectly one". I suspect that the proliferation of schisms, divisions, and splits may owe as much to America's entrepreneurial spirit as to theological and Biblical reflection. And while Protestants may believe in "justification by faith", we often interpret "faith" as the acceptance of the proper doctrine.

So what holds Eastridge together as a congregation? Is it really a "fellowship of kindred minds"? Not according to the survey. Several years ago it became popular to talk about one's "faith journey"-that each person's faith and spirituality is always developing, never completed. We take this journey not as an individual, but in a community-our church. By sharing our hearts as well as our minds, by affirming Whose we are, as well as who we are, we make the journey a little less frightening and a little more rewarding.

Prayer: "We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the LORD, and we pray that our unity will one day be restored. And they' ll know we are Christians by our love." (words by Peter Scholtes)

Bill Wehrbein

October 13, 2011

Patience

Proverbs 15:18 A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel.

I've noticed a lot recently how much I have to learn when it comes to patience. I thought about this at the Nebraska vs. Ohio State football game the other night as I waited impatiently for the Huskers to play better. I thought about it this this morning as I waited impatiently for someone to turn onto the roundabout at 33rd and Sheridan. Perhaps I'm at my worst when it comes to patience when I'm having a discussion with someone, whether it be my wife or kids or someone at work, and they don't understand what I'm trying to get across. To me it seems as plain as the nose on my face yet for some reason they don't understand and I can be so impatient when it comes to that kind of thing.

My impatience never seems to improve a situation. Again, I think back to this past week and recognize that my ranting and raving really didn't help the Huskers play any better (though I'm sure my loud cheering had something to do with that incredible comeback!). It didn't help at all this morning when I yelled in my car (windows up mind you) for the person in front of me to get onto that roundabout. It CERTAINLY never helps me in a conversation with my spouse! :)

I really like to read verses in Proverbs. It amazes me how quickly we can learn meaningful things in such short, to-the-point, verses.

Dear Lord, help me to be a more patient person. Help me to control myself and recognize how much I can help things out by not being the hot-head. In Jesus name I pray. Amen!

David Pinkerman

October 12, 2011

It's a Deceitful, Wicked World

Psalm 12 Help, LORD, for no one is faithful anymore; those who are loyal have vanished from the human race. Everyone lies to their neighbor; they flatter with their lips but harbor deception in their hearts. May the LORD silence all flattering lips and every boastful tongue- those who say, "By our tongues we will prevail; our own lips will defend us-who is lord over us?" "Because the poor are plundered and the needy groan, I will now arise," says the LORD. "I will protect them from those who malign them." And the words of the LORD are flawless, like silver purified in a crucible, like gold refined seven times. You, LORD, will keep the needy safe and will protect us forever from the wicked, who freely strut about when what is vile is honored by the human race.

Do you ever feel alone in this world? Our society seems to worship the celebrities who do drugs and cheat on their spouses. Different sports have been delayed or cancelled due to conflicts between players and owners - millionaires vs billionaires. Congress is busy making new laws for us, and, in the process, they are adding clauses so that the laws don't apply to them. It doesn't seem like anyone is living and acting as a Christian anymore.

In verse 5, God promises he will arise to protect the poor and keep the needy safe. When we feel as though sincerity and truth no longer exist and we have no one to turn to, we still have one hope - the Word of God. In verse 6, the words of God are flawless, like purified silver and refined gold. We can always believe what he says. While others are being deceitful and lying, God's word remains true.

Dear Lord, we need you in this world now more than ever. There are so many wicked people out for personal gain, not willing to help their neighbors. Please protect us, remind us that you are here. Help us to remain steadfast in your word. Amen.

Laurie Schlitt

October 11, 2011

Wind, Breath and the Holy Spirit

Scripture: John 14: 23-27 Jesus replied, "Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me. "All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

Reflection: When I was little I used to move my pillow to the bottom of my bed to sleep under the window where the wind blew in. When I grew older and had children, we'd sleep on the floor under the window to feel the breeze, and I'm a little like a puppy in the car, loving the feel of the wind around me. It feels clean and cool. I love how it blows the leaves on the trees so they make a gentle sound, I like the feel of it in my hair. I even like the way it howls in a thunderstorm and makes the windows creak. And during this beautiful autumn season, there's nothing I like better than to have all the windows of the house open and see the curtains billowing and hear the wind chimes playing. The wind and its effects, while invisible, have a very real, comforting, and moving effect for me.

On my drives to and from Lincoln this week I've been listening to an audiobook by the pastor RC Sproul about the Names of God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. He said that the Greek "pneumo" means wind, breath, and spirit. The same word was used for all three. When I was asked a few months ago in a Bible study which part of the Trinity I feel closest to, I easily answered "The Holy Spirit" because it's so easy to imagine the presence of the Holy Spirit with me at all times - swirling around, comforting, moving, adjusting things; an invisible but definite presence in my life and the world around me.

The Holy Spirit was God's gift to Christians after Jesus had to return to Heaven - a present provided to comfort, convict, to make us bold and wise. Like the wind or the breath, we can easily ignore this invisible thing, or at least work around it. God's true presence in the world to remind of his care, love, and will shouldn't be ignored. Today let's be especially aware of the presence of the spirit, God's very breath, working in, around, and through us.

Prayer: Dear God, your breath surrounds us in the person of the Holy Spirit. Even though we can't see you, you're here. Today and every day, please use your spirit to make me wise and insightful and bold for you. Amen

Lori Snyder-Sloan

October 10, 2011

GIVING IS AN ATTITUDE

SCRIPTURE: 1 Chronicles 29:10-13 David praised the LORD in the presence of the whole assembly, saying, "Praise be to you, LORD, the God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Yours, LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name."

2 Corinthians 9:6-11 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: "They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever."
Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.

REFLECTION: Several years ago, I was taken aback by a statement I read on the back of a backpack of a kindergarten student. It stated, "It's all about ME!!" Several years later, as my 5th grade music students and I were putting our spring program together, a sense of this same "me" syndrome became evident as I watched a number of individuals act out in such a way that drew attention to themselves and away from our group efforts. Those who have been in the position of putting a musical group or team of any kind together know how difficult it is when everyone is not working for a common goal and a sense of entitlement and/or "me-ness" is evident with individual members. At such times, the joy in working together becomes more difficult and the constructive use of time becomes hampered.

During one rehearsal, as my frustration level with these individuals was mounting, I suddenly blurted out, "It's all about WE and not about me!" We then took the time to talk together about what this statement meant. I was pleased they "got it" and were able to verbalize what "WE" needed to do to accomplish our goal for the spring concert. As the weeks progressed, this statement became our "mantra" and the attitude of the group changed from "what can I get out of this personally" to "what can I give to this group to meet our goal". What resulted was one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had with a group of young musicians as we all worked together with a giving attitude so we could share our music with others.

God is so generous and has given us so much! But what is our attitude about giving back what really is God's to begin with? Is our attitude "It's all about ME"? Or "It's all about WE"? In a recent sermon, Pastor Peter shared that Eastridge Church has the reputation for being a "giving" church, known for how we respond to the needs of others in our community, country and world. Only with an attitude of "we" can Eastridge Church continue the work of giving which God has set before us to accomplish.

PRAYER: Our generous and gracious God, we bless and praise you for all you have given to us. Move our hearts and souls to respond appropriately when asked to give whether it is with our tithes, our time or our talents. You alone have graciously given these to us. Help us to graciously respond back with an attitude of giving, moving past "it's all about me" and continuing forward with "it's all about WE". Amen

Patty Niemann

October 8, 2011

MIRACLES

Psalm 77:13, 14 Your ways, O God, are holy. What god is so great as our God? You are the God who performs miracles.

REFLECTION: God constantly performs small miracles in my life, reminding me ever of His presence. This past month, He has performed many great miracles in answer to our prayers. Our two-week old great-granddaughter, Hannah experienced very rapid heart beats and was rushed to St. Elizabeth Hospital. The doctors there said she needed to be rushed to Children's Hospital in Omaha. They said it would take too long for a crew and ambulance equipped to treat an infant to arrive. She was put in her mother's arms and they were told to go at once.

Hannah's father arrived as his wife and sister left the doors of the hospital, just in time to drive. The first miracle was their safe arrival at Children's where pediatric cardiac specialists were waiting.

Shortly after arriving, her little heart could beat no more and she went into cardiac arrest. She was in the hands of a skillful doctor who started CPR while another surgeon took the necessary emergency surgery steps to attach her to an infant life machine and attach the many machines to keep her alive while they diagnosed and searched for a way to treat her. The hope was slim at that point, but many prayer warriors were recruited to ask God's mercy and healing for her.

There were many ups and downs over the next few days. God gave us courage and hope as she received the excellent, skillful care of the nurses and doctors at Children's, and we trusted God to know what was best for her. Less than one month later, she is home with her family,her medicine is adjusted to keep her heart regulated until she is old enough for surgery to correct the SVT.

There were some other precious children there who were beyond the skills of the doctors and God took them home with Him. Our hearts and prayers are still with those families. We pray for their healing and peace.

HEAVENLY FATHER GOD, We thank you for the miracles in our lives and for the faith to accept your will in all things. Sometimes the best thing for those we love is so hard to accept. Please be with your people today who are in pain and suffering and heal them with your love. In Jesus' name, Amen

Carolyn Fetterley

October 7, 2011

Title: Greetings from Paul

Scripture: Romans 1: 12 "When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours."

Reflection: I recently started a Bible study of Romans. One of the first questions in the study puzzled me and got me thinking. It is a simple question, yet it was a struggle to answer it. The question: If Paul visited our church, how might he be encouraged?

Okay, struggle may be a little harsh. We all had answers, although on examination most of our answers felt a little shallow. Answers like the number of members we have and the outreach programs. The mission work we support, the children's programs and Stephen Ministry were also considered. After each response another question was asked, "Would this encourage Paul?" The feeling that we did not quite have the right answer remained. Is the faith of your church evident in these things? Do we show that faith in our daily lives? Through faith Paul encouraged others. Our church needs to be that church that others will recognize because of our faith. What do you think?

Prayer: Our heavenly Father, help each of us live a faithful life. Let our faith be evident to all those around us. Amen

Steven Lloyd

October 6, 2011

TITLE: Eastridge Presbyterian Church

SCRIPTURE: Terah took Abram his son and Lot the son of Haran, his grandson, and Sarai his daughter-in-law, his son Abram's wife, and they went forth together from Ur of the Chaldeans to go into the land of Canaan; but when they came to Haran, they settled there. (Genesis 11:31) And the Lord said to Abram, "I am the Lord who brought you from Ur of the Chaldeans, to give you this land to possess." (Genesis 15:7)

REFLECTION: It is fun to speculate what happened in this dramatic move. Ur of the Chaldeans was a wealthy trade city on the Euphrates River. What was Abram like? Undoubtedly he was wealthy, because poor people don't travel. How many concubines or slaves did Abram have? How many camels went with them into a land already occupied by the Canaanites? How many sheep and goats did they take with them? You can guess as well as I, but what is for certain - 1. Terah and his son Abram traveled in a large cortege, and 2. God talked with Abram and told him to go to the land of the Canaanites.

We here at Eastridge have had both our ministers receive words from God. Both of them are like Abram starting out for a new land. Both men have answered "Yes" to God's call.

So what does it mean for us who are left behind? Does God not talk to us? I think God does talk to us. If God were examining us, what would He see? I think He would see men and women in our congregation who are strong, caring, and with leadership abilities. I think He would see a strong staff who already know how to carry on. I think He would see a congregation of Faith, willing to rely on Him. I think God would know that Eastridge Presbyterian will continue to be a place where His Spirit lives.

PRAYER: Lord, we are sad and feel left behind. We wish our pastor Jim Crelin well and best wishes, even as we see him go. Be with us as we carry on Your work in our community and world. Amen

Lois Coleman

October 5, 2011

Psalms 146:6,7 The God who made both earth and heaven, the seas and everything in them. He is the God who keeps every promise, and gives justice to the poor and the oppressed, and food to the hungry.

THE KOALA BEAR

The gentle little koala bear
Is a loving creature.
He looks like a cuddly toy-
That's his outstanding feature/

He feeds on the eucalyptus tree,
Australia is his home/
He once ws near extinction,
But now again can roam.

This happy little teddy beae
Has a little pocket
To carry "tiny teddy" in -
Nature helps to stock it.

Yes, the koala bear is a marsupial. This loveable little creature, with the leatherlike nose, clings to its mother's back long after leaving the pouch. The koala feeds solely on the eucalyptus leaves. Without this tree, it would no longer exist, but God provides its food. God also provides our food, both physically and spiritually. He has always provided His people with their needs. Praise His name for that!

Dear Lord, I praise You for Your great mercies. I thank You for providing for our physical needs. And, Lord, I thank You for our spiritual food - for Your Word. I pray that I may take fulll advantage of it to move ever closer to You.

Permission granted by Norma J. Persson, author of God and Nature

October 4, 2011

Title: Giving back

Scripture: Proverbs 3:9-10 Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.

Reflection: I just returned from a week's vacation to California. We spent a couple of days in Napa Valley. It is a beautiful part of America and we were there in the height of grape crushing season. At a local festival, we saw a grape crushing competition. One member of a team would stomp the grapes and the other team member kept the grapes from clogging a spout to try to fill a jug. Three teams filled the gallon jug completely in the 5 minute crushing time. I don't know if the donated grapes were the firstfruits of the vineyard owners, but they were not the dried up leftovers.

We are to honor the Lord with our firstfruits, and we understand that this passage does not just apply to those who own vineyards. Yes, we are to give our tithe to God from our paychecks first. But this passage goes deeper than that. We need to understand that we ourselves an offering. The Lord wants us to willingly give ourselves to Him. We should give of our tie and money willingly and joyfully, not because it is required. And we should do this first, not as a left over action.

If we do that, God promises that we will be abundantly rich in blessings from God. He gives to us and we give back to Him and He gives back to us again what is His. We can never give more than the Lord gives to us, but we should continue to give back. He calls us to present ourselves as a living sacrifice. Let us respond out of a grateful heart.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, you have been so giving with us and we are sorry when we don't return this in kind. We see your generosity when we look at our families, our homes, our church families and our amazing planet. Please reveal to each of us where we can best be used in your service to build your kingdom. Amen.

Cindy Thomson

October 3, 2011

SCRIPTURE: Galatians 5:13-14.You, my brothers, were called to be free...serve one another in love. The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."

REFLECTION: My son, Jimmy, was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident several years ago. He had many broken bones, multiple surgeries, and suffers from severe pain. As a result he is unemployed. Recently I received the following email from Bonnie, his loving and faithful partner:

"I agree that it is hard for Jimmy to be dependent on others and not have the joy of being able to give to others. I know that I am self-sufficient but when I let others help me I am allowing them to express love. It seems that our generation has taught others to be takers and I believe that is why our world is in the state it is in...they don't give back to the earth, to family, to friends, or to strangers. There was a time when the simple handshake could be trusted. I am not saying greed wasn't there before but I think it is more prevalent now. We, also, are not taught to appreciate our contributions, skills/abilities and talents being told that it is the sin of vanity. But that is when we feel useless, when we don't value ourselves. I know that some of Jimmy's problem is that he thinks he doesn't contribute to me, to the family, and to society...and you can't force someone to see what they are. I know when I come home I don't have to worry about laundry, dishes, housework in general. Jimmy plays with my grandson and does some of the repairs that the landlord should have done. He watches my pets when I am gone and babies me when I come home and have had a hard day. He feels that what he has done isn't anything. Even though I have told him that these things are important, he doesn't see it. Jimmy only sees the care I give him and not the care he gives me.

There was a time for many of us when our parents lived with us as they aged...then it was ‘get them into a home for the elderly as soon as we could so we wouldn't have to give up any part of our lives" forgetting that our elderly parents have so much they can still give to us.

I take the elderly gentleman (John) to our house once a week. He has Alzheimer's and loves to watch my grandson play and enjoys watching the pets. It helps me, too, as while he is playing with my grandson I can do dishes or pick up around the house. When it is time to take John back to his condo, my grandson goes with me to help. Jimmy stays watching my son's baby; I have helped John by getting him out of the house; he has helped me by looking at each of my grandson's toys; I get to help my son and his wife by being able to baby sit; my grandson is learning how to help take care of someone other than himself'; so it is winning all the way around. I am glad that my kids got to live with my mother. They have sympathy for people with disabilities because they had her in their life and I think I have learned how to be more caring because of it. My grandson also tries to help Jimmy when Jimmy is having a bad bout with his injuries. I know that is not enough for Jimmy because he would like to do more but we can only do what we can do...at least he tries and for me that is enough.

PRAYER: Dear God of Love, Teach us to value our own abilities and to use our gifts and talents to help others. In the name of Him who taught us how to love and to serve. Amen.

Marie Fischer

October 1, 2011

TITLE: Count Your Blessings

SCRIPTURE: Philippians 4:6-7 " Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
I Thessalonians 5: 18 "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

REFLECTION: Many are familiar with the lyrics to the song, "Count Your Blessings" written by Johnson Oatman Jr. The refrain begins with "Count your blessings, name them one by one. Count your many blessings, see what God hath done."

Some feel that true blessings are to be found in the amount of earthly possessions we obtain. Through prayer and study of scriptures, we discover instead our real blessings. We can continue to explore new ways of counting our blessings.

At her request, I gave my daughter-in-law a Gratitude Journal. On the blank pages, she recorded her thoughts and feelings about her everyday blessings. This simple exercise can change the way we see life and circumstances. Looking for the blessings in our daily lives can help us to see obstacles as opportunities. Mary Ann Bede's portrayal of Fannie Crosby at the September Eastridge Presbyterian Women's lunch gathering, clearly showed how Fannie modeled this in her life.

Some persons see God's blessings through daily human interactions that are simple but meaningful. Perhaps the pharmacist remembers your name. Or you can look back and recall persons who made a difference in your life years ago. I wrote a "thank you, teacher" letter to my high school English teacher. By reconnecting with this teacher, we both received a blessing.
Our lives are filled with an abundance of blessings. I thank God daily for my multitude of blessings.

PRAYER: God, remind us to count our blessings each day and to see obstacles as opportunities.

Lois Poppe

September 30, 2011

TITLE: JOY-PRAY-THANKFUL

SCRIPTURE: 1Thessalonians 5:16-18 Always be joyful. Keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

REFLECTION: In this scripture, Paul is giving commands to the Thessalonian Christians. It was written about A.D. 51 from Corinth. The commands are so appropriate for us today- be joyful, pray, always be thankful. This is very straight forward. It is God's will for us to be joyful, pray, and be thankful.

Always be joyful. Our aim in life should be to be joyful at all times and carry that joy to others around us. It does not come naturally to us to be joyful and I need to remind myself to be joyful. Being joyful is contagious to others around us, the opposite of grumbling and complaining.

Keep on praying. We need to be in dialogue with God through prayer. Prayer can be a planned prayer at bedtime or other times of the day and it can be at the spur of the moment anytime. A good time for my spur of the moment prayer is at a red light. Another spur of the moment is when I look at the beautiful world that God made.

Be thankful for all we have. We need to be grateful in every circumstance. We forget to be thankful to God.

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, Keep this scripture in our hearts- be joyful, pray, and be thankful. These are 3 simple words(commands from God). Amen

Susan Taylor

September 29, 2011

FOR THE BEAUTY OF THE EARTH

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 8:3-4 When I look at thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars which thou hast established; what is man that thou art mindful of him, and the son of man that thou dost care for him?

REFLECTION: On a recent late summer morning, I was bicycling alone on a trail just a few miles outside of town. It was a glorious day in Nebraska--vast blue skies, sunshine, goldenrod and sunflowers, gentle breezes, and the scent of the country. Marveling at my good fortune to live in such a world and to have the opportunity to enjoy it, I was brimming with gratitude and praise for God! How is it possible to feel so small and yet at the same time so close to God? The psalmist seems to have had a similar spiritual experience. And so too must have Folliot S. Pierpoint over one-hundred years ago when he penned the lyrics of the classic hymn, "For the Beauty of the Earth."

PRAYER:
For the beauty of the earth,
For the glory of the skies,
For the love which from our birth
Over and around us lies;
Lord of all, to thee we raise
This our hymn of grateful praise.

For the beauty of each hour
Of the day and of the night,
Hill and vale, and tree and flower,
Sun and moon, and stars of light;
Lord of all, to thee we raise
This our hymn of grateful praise. Amen.

Judith Keller

September 28, 2011

SCRIPTURE: When I saw Him, I fell at His feet like a dead man. And He placed His right hand on me, saying, "Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades. Revelation 1:17-18

REFLECTION: Are you afraid? If so, you do not need to be. Today, with all of the wars, terrorist, and natural disasters it is easy to become afraid and forget what Jesus tells us. He tells us we do not need to be afraid.

He goes on to tell us that He is the first and the last, and the living One. He was there at the beginning of time, the time of creation. God has created all, each of us and even the devil. All is part of His plan. He will be there at the last and all of the time in-between.

In Revelation, He tells us the future even before it happens and it shows us that it is all a part of His plan. In Colossians 1, He tells us that He created the Church and it was part of His plan. Jesus is in the midst of the church. We can be saved by faith . He conquered sin and death, and if we continue in faith He will present you Holy without blame. He knows each of us, cares for us, and loves us. He knows all of our deeds. He will be at the end and will judge us. Judgment begins at the house of God. In John 5 we learn that God gave authority to the "son of man". Jesus will be there and if we know, and believe his word as the truth, we do not need to be afraid.

PRAYER: Lord, help us know and feel the peace that you would want us to feel and the assurance that we know you and we do not need to be afraid. We have your word to study and to know it as a truth. Let each of us study and grow in it. Amen

Marilyn (Jones) Albin

September 26, 2011

TITLE: His Steadfast Love

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 13: 5-6 But I have trusted in thy steadfast love. My heart shall rejoice in thy salvation. I will sing to the Lord because he has dealt bountifully with me. (RVS)

REFLECTION: What wonderful words of joy. There are so many negative things going on in our community, country and world that it is easy to become discouraged. It is helpful and comforting to know that God is always with us and strengthens us in dealing with difficult situations.

PRAYER: Dear Lord God, thank you for always being with us, even when we forget. In Jesus Name Amen.

Kathy Kuehn

September 24, 2011

TITLE: RETURNING GOOD FOR EVIL

SCRIPTURE: Luke 6:27-31. "But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you and pray for those who mistreat you. If anyone hits you on one cheek, let him hit the other one, too; if someone takes your coat, let him have your shirt as well. Give to everyone who asks you for something, and when someone takes what is yours, do not ask for it back. Do for others just what you want them to do for you. If you love only the people who love you, why should you receive a blessing? Even sinners love those who love them!"

REFLECTION: Sounds like an invitation to be bullied, doesn't it? I can just hear the cynics saying, "sucker" under their breaths. Actually, God doesn't want us to allow others to take advantage of us. He just wants us to do what is right, and that means thinking of others first. And, boy, that is not easy!!

I am always amazed when I read about people who are terribly wronged, and yet they forgive the transgressors, and establish a relationship with them. They take them into their lives and hearts. Actually, when we don't forgive someone when they have hurt us, and we continue to be bitter against them, the hurt festers, ends up eating away at us, and destroying us. (So, it's really hurting us more than it is them.)

PRAYER: Gracious God, we thank you for the purity and goodness of your son, Jesus Christ. What an example he is for us!! If anyone returned good for evil, he was the one. Crucified on the cross, some of his last words were: "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." Help us to live by his example.Amen.

Gerry Draney

September 23, 2011

TITLE: From the Lips of Children

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 21:16 "Do you hear what these children are saying?" They asked him. "Yes," replied Jesus, "have you never read, " ‘From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise.'?"

REFLECTION: Having dinner with one of my grandchildren and his family I asked him, a 12 year old, what God had done for him this year. He replied, "I was having nightmares every night and I went into my father after one of them and he prayed with me for them to end. I haven't had a nightmare again."

This touched me because when his father was little I used to have to step over him because he would come lay beside us on the floor. At that time he told me he was having nightmares but I didn't pray with him. I just told him to go back to bed, he was too big to come into our room and I was afraid I would step on him and hurt him. As I have grown in my relationship with Christ, I have wished I had taken the opportunity to pray with him at that time. What a lesson I could have taught him! You can imagine the blessing I felt that my grandson had learned that lesson from the one I didn't teach.

PRAYER: O Father, how great thou art. You teach where we fail to teach. You know everything. Please help me to be more aware and use these words more frequently- "May I pray with you?" Thank you for blessing us even when we fail. Amen.

Sandy

September 22, 2011

"Learning to Lean on Jesus"

"I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame." Psalm 34: 4-5 (NIV)

There is a Southern gospel hymn titled, "I'm Learning to Lean on Jesus". I am not sure who wrote the song, however many gospel groups have recorded the song. I love the words of the song because every time I hear the song, I think of all of those times that I have prayed for God to help me in whatever decision I may be struggling. But most of the time, I already know the decision that I want God to make. I am merely asking him to confirm that decision and make it happen rather than leaning on him to help me make the decision that is truly right for me in that particular situation.

When you were in school, did you ever choose another activity rather than studying for a test, and the night before the big test, you prayed that God would help you make 100% on the test, even though you did not study as you should have? I have done that, at the same time knowing full well that I have not made the correct decision in preparing for the test and that God expected me to do what was expected of me. I think that is what these verses are telling us. When we seek the Lord in an honest, dedicated and loving manner, God will answer our prayers. He may not answer them with the decision that we have planned, however, God always knows best in our lives and will answer us in the manner that is right for us.

Our Heavenly Father, thank you for always being there for us as we learn to lean on you to help us in all of our actions and in all of our words. You always know best and will guide us in the way that is best for us, if we only allow you to do that. Thank you for all the many blessings you have bestowed on each of us. In Your name we pray. Amen

Linda Douglas

September 21, 2011

Title: Strong Enough

Scripture: 2Samuel 22:33 It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect.

Message: Have you heard Matthew West's new song "Strong Enough"? His message is one that resonates with me and I hope with you as well.

You must, You must think I'm strong
To give me what I'm going through
Well forgive me, forgive me if I'm wrong
But this looks like more than I can do
On my own

I know I'm not strong enough to be
Everything that I'm supposed to be
I give up, I'm not strong enough
Hands of mercy won't You cover me?
Lord, right now I'm asking You to be
Strong enough, strong enough
For the both of us

Well maybe, maybe that's the point
To reach the point of giving up
'Cause when I'm finally, finally at rock bottom
Well that's when I start looking up
And reaching out

I know I'm not strong enough to be
Everything that I'm supposed to be
I give up, I'm not strong enough
Hands of mercy won't You cover me?
Lord, right now I'm asking You to be
Strong enough, strong enough
For the both of us

'Cause I'm broken
Down to nothing
But I'm still holding on to the one thing
You are God
And You are strong when I am weak
I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength
And I don't have to be strong enough
I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength
And I don't have to be
Strong enough, strong enough
Oh yeah

Prayer: Loving Father, when I feel like I just can't handle one more problem, disappointment or stressful situation, help me to remember that I am not alone. You are always there with me, giving me the strength I need to get through everything. Amen.

Barb Anderson

September 20, 2011

DEVOTION: "A lesson from the animal kingdom"

SCRIPTURE: Hebrews 11:6 "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him."

Matthew 17:20 ". . . If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you."

MEDITATION: A recent email received from a friend contains a good lesson: "If you put a buzzard in a pen that is six feet by six feet and is entirely open at the top, the bird, in spite of its ability to fly, will be an absolute prisoner. The reason is that a buzzard always begins a flight from the ground with a run of ten to twelve feet. Without a space to run, it will not even attempt to fly, but will remain a prisoner for life in a small jail with no top.

"A bumblebee, if dropped into an open tumbler, will be there until it dies unless it is taken out. It never sees the means of escape at the top but persists in trying to find some way out through the sides near the bottom. It will seek a way where none exists until it completely destroys itself.

"In many ways, we are like the buzzard and the bumblebee. We struggle about with all of our problems and frustrations, never realizing that all we have to do is look up! That's the answer, the escape route and the solution to any problem:

"Sorrow looks back. Worry looks around. Faith looks up!"

PRAYER: Our Father, When we are imprisoned by our worries and frustrations, when we struggle vainly for a way out, teach us that we can rely on you. Teach us to look up in faith to you. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Keith M. Heim

September 19, 2011

TITLE: "I Wish"

SCRIPTURE: Galatians 5:24-25 (NIV) Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

REFLECTION: Last week, I had the opportunity to attend a luncheon held in one of the skyboxes at Memorial Stadium. It was a beautiful day, and the windows of the skybox were open, allowing in a lovely breeze. I looked down at the field and found myself thinking, "What would it be like to be able to afford a skybox?" There was a moment when I thought, "Wouldn't that be nice?"

We've all probably found ourselves at one time or another saying, "Wouldn't it be nice if [fill in the blank--I had a new car, or a new house, or money to travel.]" When I bought my last car, I told the salesman about a kind of car I really liked, but I didn't think I could afford it. He told me they had a used model that would be about the same price as one of the new models I was looking at. But then I realized that I couldn't really picture myself driving that more expensive car. So I guess I thought I wanted something that I really didn't.

It's easy in our commercial culture to get caught up in wanting something because our friends have it. Many people feel the need to buy the latest gadget, like an iPad, or fashions with a designer logo, like Ralph Lauren. And we may feel we're better than others because we have those items.

But the scripture tells us not to become conceited or to envy others. If we give it some thought, most of us would realize we have everything we truly need. God has provided for us, and yet we often want more. Wouldn't it be nice if, instead of wishing for something more, we gave thanks for all we have?

PRAYER: Dear God, You have provided for us and satisfied all our needs. Forgive us for frequently wishing for more. Help us to make our wish to be more like you. Amen.

Robin Hadfield

September 17, 2011

GOT FAITH?

SCRIPTURE: "And what is faith? Faith gives substance to our hopes, and makes us certain of realities we do not see." (Hebrews 11:1 NEB)

REFLECTION: It was the Monday before Easter, 2010. I was listening to the Christian Radio Network in my car. The soft burr of the pastor's voice was pleasing to my ear as he preached on the subject of miracles. Two statements from his sermon replayed in my mind for several days. He had said, "God wants you to have the miracle in your life that you need." "You are just one person or one place away from receiving it." I so wanted to believe those words as I had been praying for a very long time for a miracle that would save my deteriorating vision. Future blindness was becoming a very real possibility for me.

At the end of that week, I went to the church to hang the lilies on the cross for Easter as I have done since 1979. However, in 2010, different people were assisting me. After we finished our project, one of the "helpers" said to me, "I was just diagnosed with the same heredity eye problem you have, but I'm not going to have the surgery because it is still in the early stages." "What surgery?" I asked. "My eye doctor has never mentioned a surgical procedure." "Well, maybe you should get a second opinion," she said.

Two weeks later, I sought that second opinion. After my eyes were examined, I heard the four most beautiful words in the English language. The doctor said, "I can help you."

PRAYER: Thank You, Father, for the everyday miracles you work in our lives. Thank you for wanting us to have what we need and leading us where we need to be. Strengthen our faith, we pray, that we might continue to hope and believe in "realities we do not see" just as it is written in Hebrews 11:1. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Judy Welch

September 16, 2011

TITLE: Channel of Your Peace

SCRIPTURE: 1 Corinthians 13: 13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

REFLECTION: This last week I've been listening to the song "Make Me a Channel of Your Peace." A powerful song that calls us as individuals and as a spiritual family to share God's love in order to overcome hatred, doubt, spiritual injuries, and a host of other feelings that we encounter in our everyday lives. If you do nothing else today, listen to this song and contemplate the love that is our Lord Jesus Christ and the good that we can do for others.

PRAYER: Father, I give you great praise! Let me be a channel of Your love today, tomorrow, and in all things that I do. I ask for the grace that is only yours to give. Amen.

Greg Tubach

September 15, 2011

SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 12:5 Sing to the Lord, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world.

DEVOTION: Awhile ago, we were flying in the early a.m. It was a dreary dark morning on the ground as we left Lincoln. In the plane at Omaha, we rose to nearly 35,000 feet above the clouds and the morning broke in lovely pinks and blues. I could hear my mother say, "God's in his heaven and all is right with the world".

It was a beautiful morning there above the clouds but unfortunately not all is right with the world. Land has flooded, other states are suffering from drought, there is little food on the shelves in the food banks, people are losing their homes, states have even closed, and there is rioting in the streets in many countries. At the time of this writing, we are waiting for a hurricane to hit the east coast and a earthquake has already rocked this area. And this week, alone, I know that seven orders for food were filled from our own pantry here at Eastridge.

Our faith lies between us and despair. We must sing to the Lord in loud voices, we must hope in his great powers. It is our job to pray and let our lights shine in order to keep the faith in a troubled world.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, let our lights shine as we sing your praises in loud voices to be heard throughout this world that you created. Amen

Carolyn Olsen

September 14, 2011

TITLE: Hope

SCRIPTURE: Ezekiel 37: 1-6 The hand of the Lord was upon me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry. He asked me, "Son of man, can these bones live?" I said, "O Sovereign Lord, you alone know." Then he said to me, "Prophesy to these bones and say to them, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord! This is what the Sovereign Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life. I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin. I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the Lord.'"

REFLECTION: Last Sunday's sermon on the above passage was one of hope. What could be more hopeless than a valley of bones? But God shows us that with Him, nothing is impossible. God is faithful, keeps his promises and never leaves us. He uses the dry bone situations in our lives, in our church, and in our country to accomplish His will and to give us hope.

PRAYER:
Oh no, You never let go
Through the calm and through the storm
Oh no, You never let go
In every high and every low
Oh no, You never let go
Lord, You never let go of me
Amen.

YOU NEVER LET GO LYRICS - MATT REDMAN

Cathy Schapmann

September 13, 2011

Scripture: "Choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served in the region beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord. Joshua 24: 15

And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me." And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, "This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood. Luke 21: 19-20

Reflection: A few weeks ago my family attended the funeral of a truly fine man who had lived a long and productive life and died a gracious death from cancer. At the well-attended memorial service there were many who spoke fondly and eloquently about their time with Jerry. The variety was noticeable: family, young and old, business partners, employees, friends, relative strangers, tenants, and neighbors. They spoke of his kindness, humility, good humor, love of teaching and mentoring, a man generous with his time and his resources - a man who gave whatever would help to make the lives of others better, yet wanting no applause for himself. He was a man who, by the life he lived, left a legacy in many senses of the word.

After the long line of people from all walks of life had finished, the pastor asked the question of the congregation gathered - "Did they see it?" The similarity in the stories? The consistent message of humble generosity? The spirit of giving? The attention to relationships? Not just those that would bring benefit to him, but the joy of enriching the lives of others? And this pastor challenged each of us, that if we really cared about the friend we had lost; if we really wanted him not to leave this earth; that we continue in this legacy of caring. He challenged us to find our own ways to carry on the traits we had so admired in Jerry.

Christ does the same when he tells the disciples to "eat this bread and drink this wine", to "tend to the sheep", to "love one another as I have loved you". And we remember September 11th and the people who didn't get the chance to wake up this morning or worship God or go to work or be in relationships. Maybe it's the nearly 3000 people who died in the events of September 11, 2001, or those who have lost their lives in our nation's response, or maybe it's someone else known only to us. But in any case, we have a choice today and every day about how we will live and what our lives will stand for.

Prayer: Dear and gracious Lord, you send people into my life, including Jesus, to make a difference in the way I live and serve. Please open my eyes and help me not to miss those opportunities to learn from you and to make this life you've given me count for something in this kingdom and the next. Amen

Lori Snyder-Sloan

September 12, 2011

Random Acts of Kindness

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult. There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved; God will help it when the morning dawns. The nations are in an uproar, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Come, behold the works of the Lord; see what desolations he has brought on the earth. He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow, and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire. "Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth." The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Psalm 46

It is a beautiful morning this morning, September 11. We are listening to the memorials of this day 10 years ago, remembering the senseless acts of violence that forever changed our country and our lives. A beautiful morning like this seems to contradict the evils of a decade ago.

Evil would win if we stopped there. Instead, we need to remember the many random acts of kindness that occurred that counteracted the evil. The men who risked their lives to carry a woman in a wheelchair down the stairs. The firefighters, policemen, random people on the street helping those who were trying to escape. The kindness spread across the country and brought us all together.

We should use this time to remember that, as Psalm 46 says, God is our refuge and strength. This beautiful fall weather is a real reminder of the promise of this Psalm - the end of war, the wonder of peace and tranquility. Today is a good day to continue to practice random acts of kindness. Every little act we perform is like a ripple in a pond, and it spreads throughout the water.

Dear Lord, it was a dark day a decade ago. Today is a bright new dawning. Help us to find ways to bring a bright dawning to others lives by helping them in little ways - maybe holding a door for a stranger, cooking a meal for a neighbor who is hurting. There are so many ways we can show your love. Amen.

Laurie

September 10, 2011

TITLE: What Would Jesus Do?

SCRIPTURE: Luke 10:25-28 On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he asked, "What must I do to inherit eternal life?" "What is written in the law? How do you read it"? He answered, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your strength and with all your mind. and your neighbor as yourself." "You have answered correctly." Jesus replied. "Do this and you will live." (New International Version)

REFLECTION: As is true of many of you, I expect, I read In His Steps many years ago. It was written by Charles Sheldon (1857-1946), pastor, theologian, author, and a forerunner of the social gospel movement. The acronym, WWJD (What would Jesus do?) was the theme of the novel which tells the story of Christians who challenged themselves to live as Christ would for a year.

Jesus' answer as to what is required of us-to love God and our neighbor-is simple and direct. He does not enumerate an extensive list of do's and don'ts. Parables and illustrations give us clues as to how to apply the teaching. For example, the parable of the prodigal son is a story of sin, love, and forgiveness. It is also a story of envy. I wonder if the story might instill in us a feeling of empathy and compassion for the other son who felt that his faithfulness had not been appreciated.

In the story of the rich young ruler, the man was unable to follow Jesus' teaching to ‘sell all you have (wealth, power, and status) and give to the poor'. I often think of people who sacrifice to serve others especially those who provide help to people in impoverished countries. I could not do that. Physical comfort is too important to me.

In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus gives us a tough assignment-to judge not. So many factors shape our attitudes and convictions-culture, ethnicity, class, political beliefs, wealth, etc. What would Jesus have us do in our personal relationships and in our role in society at this time of dissension and polarization? I think we must be true to our convictions but always listen to the views of others, treat them with respect, and seek and find ways to work together for the common good.

PRAYER:
Christ has no body now on earth but yours,
No hands but yours,
Yours are the feet with which he is to go about doing good. Amen. (St Teresa)

Marie Fischer

September 9, 2011

TITLE: Guide For Living

SCRIPTURE: Proverbs1:8 Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching.
Proberbs 4:1 Listen, my sons, to a father's instruction; pay attention and gain understanding.
Proverbs 22:6 Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.

REFLECTION: Having been a high school basketball coach, one of my coaching favorites was UCLA college basketball coach, John Wooden. He was an outstanding success as a coach and as a person. After reading his final book, THE WISDOM OF WOODEN, I've discovered the tremendous respect he had for his parents for the guidance that they provided for him. In fact, Coach Wooden credits his father for providing a set of seven suggestions to follow in establishing a philosophy of life that would help Coach Wooden "amount to something." These seven principles are:
1. Be true to yourself
2. Help others
3. Make each day your masterpiece
4. Drink deeply from good books, including the Good Book
5. Make friendship a fine art
6. Build a shelter, including a spiritual shelter, against a rainy day
7. Pray for guidance, count and give thanks for your blessings each day

Coach Wooden refers to these principles as his guide to becoming the person he became.

My parents did not establish a concrete set of principles like that for me to live by in my life. My wife and I did not develop such a list for our son either. However, as Christians, each of us already has a set of guidelines to follow. Our spiritual Father has presented His expectations for us to follow wth the Ten Commandments. Following these ten laws of God will help us to "amount to something"!

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for providing a set of rules for our lives so that we too may "amount to something" in Your eyes. In Your Son's name, we pray. Amen

Lauren Holcombe

September 8, 2011

Scripture: Mark 12:28-31 One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?" "The most important one," answered Jesus, "is this: 'Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these."

Reflection: If we could follow these two commandments, we would be wonderful disciples. If we loved God with all our hearts, we would want to do his will. I found a list of all the wonderful things that God is on some software I own. He is a great God!

GOD IS DECLARED TO BE.

Light. Isaiah 60:19; James 1:17; 1 John 1:5
Love. 1 John 4:8, 16
Invisible. Job 23:8-9; John 1:18; John 5:37; Col. 1:15; 1 Tim. 1:17
Unsearchable. Job 11:7; Job 37:23; Psalm 145:3; Isaiah 40:28; Romans 11:33
Incorruptible. Romans 1:23
Eternal. Deut. 33:27; Psalm 90:2; Rev. 4:8-10
Immortal. 1 Tim. 1:17; 1 Tim. 6:16
Omnipotent. Genesis 17:1; Exodus 6:3
Omniscient. Psalm 139:1-6; Proverbs 5:21
Omnipresent. Psalm 139:7; Jeremiah 23:23
Immutable. Psalm 102:26-27; James 1:17
Only-wise. Romans 16:27; 1 Tim. 1:17
Glorious. Exodus 15:11; Psalm 145:5
Most High. Psalm 83:18; Acts 7:48
Perfect. Matthew 5:48
Holy. Psalm 99:9; Isaiah 5:16
Just. Deut. 32:4; Isaiah 45:21
True. Jeremiah 10:10; John 17:3
Upright. Psalm 25:8; Psalm 92:15
Righteous. Ezra 9:15; Psalm 145:17
Good. Psalm 25:8; Psalm 119:68
Great. 2 Chron. 2:5; Psalm 86:10
Gracious. Exodus 34:6; Psalm 116:5
Faithful. 1 Cor. 10:13; 1 Peter 4:19
Merciful. Exodus 34:6-7; Psalm 86:5
Long-suffering. Numbers 14:18; Micah 7:1
Jealous. Joshua 24:19; Nahum 1:2
Compassionate. 2 Kings 13:23
A consuming fire. Hebrews 12:29

We also need to reach out to our neighbors. To love them as ourselves is a big demand.

We are taking up the cross if we do these two commands. As we reach for God we are the upright part of the cross and as we reach out to our neighbors we are the crossbeam of the cross.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank you for Jesus who taught us these two great commandments. You are a wonderful God. Help us to always remember that. Forgive us when we don't follow both of these commandments. Let us keep trying to follow them. Amen

Jan Mitchell

September 7, 2011

Bike Race

Luke 9:23 Then he said to them all "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me."

I truly enjoy riding my bicycle. Forty, fifty or more miles at ten to twelve miles an hour is a great way to see the countryside. A long ride always makes me feel good when it is over. Recently I found myself intrigued in another type of bicycle riding. The USA Pro Cycling Challenge was held in Colorado last week. I have never really watched pro racing before. I have only seen little snippets of the Tour de France, never a complete race. Sunday afternoon was the final day and I watched the riders as they circled downtown Denver. As I watched I saw something one rarely, if ever, sees in a competitive sport. With three quarters of a lap to go, the race leader suddenly slowed down and let the pack catch up to him. Then as a mob of riders approached the finish line, one man, riding as hard as he could, started to move up on the leader. Then within feet of passing him and only yards to the finish line he stopped peddling and let his team mate win.

What a sacrifice he made. It made me think of the sacrifice Jesus made for us. Jesus asked nothing of us other than to follow him. He sacrificed his life for our sins. How often do we sacrifice for someone else? When we are asked to help, are we willing or are there other things that are more important to us? Jesus said "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." Will you stop short of the finish line to follow Jesus?

Lord, help us to keep you in our sight. Guide us and keep us following you. Amen

Steve Lloyd

September 6, 2011

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 For every thing there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted: a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; a time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace.

Many years ago when I was a social work consultant, I met a woman who was coming into a nursing home and was close to 90. She was suffering from a rapid moving terminal cancer and chose to have no treatment. She had been a dynamic person all her life. She was one of the founding members of her church, had taught high school science until age 72, and had been the director of the local Girl Scout Camp every summer. Upon retirement, she joined the Peace Corps and initially was assigned to teach high school in an African province, but once she got there -she was needed instead to teach college science so that future teachers could educate the country. After 8 years she retired from the Peace Corps and became a missionary for her church at age 80. She basically returned to her prior job in Africa teaching college level science, but she also saw a need for her students to learn English-so she held English classes in her apartment every night to a capacity crowd. Oh, and by the way, she taught English by having them read and discuss the Bible. The country she was in had a dictator who frowned on the Bible and Christians. When some local militants reported to the dictator about her evening activities-he said "Leave her alone-what can a little old lady do?" The dictator was Momar al-Ghadafi. Everyday at the nursing home, she received many letters and cards from all over the world, and especially cards from her former students in Libya. I am sure God planted many seeds through this lady, many of which have grown and blossomed-for what can 1 little old lady do.

Heavenly Father, thank you for role models who plant the seeds of faith and freedom. Thank you for the gifts we have received from you. Help us to use our gifts daily for your purposes. Amen

Nancy Hall

September 5, 2011

Topic: God is in Control

Scriptures: Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Reflection: There are times in our lives that we think things are not what we had expected or hoped. Things seem to happen "to" us rather than us directing them. We forget something at home, we miss the light that could save us time, a co-worker isn't able to complete the tasks needed, or your church has a sudden turnover of staff.

Life is full of challenges. We go through trials in our lives. God does not lead us around the trial, but through it. When things seem crazy, we have to remember that God is in control. Sometimes when I'm overwhelmed and seemingly in the wrong place at the wrong time, I remind myself that God intends for me to be in that place, in that moment. Each of our experiences, whether good or bad, is meant for our spiritual enlightenment.

So how are we going to find why God wants our congregation to go through this period of trial? We need to ask! If ever there is a time for a congregation to be called into pray, it is the time of waiting during a pastoral transition. Every family needs to pray regularly, every meeting needs to open in prayer, every Sunday school class and every worship service needs to includes petitions that God will send just the right person to us.

God is in control. His plan is not always efficiency. It is not always a clean and tidy straight line. God's plan is based on his desire to change us, to redeem us, to be near us and to love us. God has a plan and it is perfect. When we are facing a difficult trial, God wants us to draw closer to him. He is using such times to help us grow in faith. Just as a landscaper cuts a plant to form a certain shape, so God allows trials in our life to shape us into the image of Christ.

We've heard the phrase "Let Go and let God", but do we really live it? When we pray, we also need to listen. We need to listen for God's guidance in the decisions we make. God never promised it would be easy, but he promised to be there with us always. We need to "Let God" have complete control in our lives. He has promised us good and gives us hope.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to rely on you for everything. Help us to hear your voice when you are leading us through the trials of life. May we listen to your Spirit and be assured and confident in your power at work. All the praise, honor and glory are due your glorious name. Amen.

Cindy Thomson

September 3, 2011

TITLE: Protection and Faithfulness

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 121 (KJV) I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand. The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.

REFLECTION: Where I grew up in northwestern New Jersey a portion of the family farm was in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. My cousins and I spent many hours playing on "the hill" and looking over the valley below. Time was set aside on Sunday afternoon for a walk on ‘the hill". Our Christmas tree came from "the hill". On cold winter nights we looked toward "the hill" and the sky to see the grand display of the Northern Lights. The beautiful tree covered, rocky hill was an important part of our lives. We lifted up our eyes to the physical hill and enjoyed it as a part of our surroundings.

Psalm 121 makes reference to lifting up one's eyes to the hills and asks for the source of help. In eight short verses of scripture we are assured that our help comes from our Lord, the maker of heaven and earth. The psalmist proclaims that the Lord will protect us and be with us for evermore. Ancient words give us comfort and hope as we live in a busy, complicated and confusing world.

PRAYER: Psalm 100:3-5 Know that the Lord is God. It is he that made us and we are his people and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him, bless is name. For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations. (NSRV)

Gail Keown

September 2, 2011

Title: Remembering 9/11

Scripture: Psalm 73:23-24 " Nevertheless I am continually with you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will receive me with honor."

Reflection: The tenth anniversary of 9/11 is approaching. It hardly seems possible. At this time, I think back on the thirteen years that my husband and I provided Disaster Child Care, including in New York following 9/11.

After natural disasters - floods, hurricanes, and tornados, as well as after 9/11, we traveled to disaster sites with our "Kit of Comfort". We helped children as they tried to deal with the aftermath of terrible, traumatic experiences. Using paints, playdough, miniature emergency vehicles, books and other familiar children's tools, we helped children work through what they had experienced.

As adults, we find it hard to deal with and seek to understand such disasters. Children find it even more difficult. We can't "make it all better" for children or anyone, by ourselves. We can, however, count on God's promises shared with us in Scripture. We know that the Holy Spirit is in us and surrounds us no matter what happens to us.

Prayer: God, we are grateful for your loving care each day and that you are always with us. Amen.

Lois Poppe

September 1, 2011

SCRIPTURE: Ezekiel 37: 2-5 He led me back and forth among them and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry. He asked me, "Son of man, can these bones live? I said, "O Sovereign Lord, you alone know." Then he said to me, "Prophesy to these bones and say to them, , "Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord! This is what the Sovereign Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you , and you will come to life.

REFLECTION: Many years ago, when I was in High School, we learned the song about the dry bones. I have always been fasciated with it as we sang it and still am today when I read this scripture. As I was reading in Ezekiel this week and came across this scripture again, I was reminded of this message. This is one of Ezekiel's striking prophecies. The valley of dry bones reveals God's loving concern for the people of Israel. Though dead as bones, the nation would be restored to life again.

Are there individuals who, you think are too sinful, intellectual, or self-sufficient to ever experience new life in Jesus? Can someone be too lost to be saved? If one finds yourself thinking this then perhaps we need a fresh vision of God's miraculous, life-giving power. To whom did God give life? To a disbanded and dispersed people, exiled from their homeland and convinced that God had given up on them. If God can raise up dead bones to make a new nation what do you think He can do through you in the lives of others who are "dead in sins" The miraculous is absolutely basic to Christianity.

PRAYER: Lord, help us to remember that with you there is always hope as your love for us is so great it is hard for us to comprehend it. Let us remember that we can always be restored to life and so can others. Let our lives show you to others. Amen

Marilyn (Jones) Albin

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January 18, 2012

FIGHT OR FLIGHT?

January 17, 2012

TITLE: BREAD

January 16, 2012

January 14, 2012

TITLE: Overwhelmed and Disorganized

January 13, 2012

January 12, 2012

Stress

January 11, 2012

January 10, 2012

DON'T WORRY, BE HAPPY WITH JESUS

January 9, 2012

TITLE: Decision For 2012

January 7, 2012

Title: Winter

January 5, 2012

January 4, 2012

Reciprocating Grace

January 3, 2012

TITLE: God of the Ages

January 2, 2012

TITLE: A Clean Slate

December 31, 2011

UNEXPECTED GIFTS

December 30, 2011

LOVE EACH 0THER

December 29, 2011

TITLE: Thanks and Amazement

December 28, 2011

December 27, 2011

Title: Listening to God

December 25, 2011

All the people

December 24, 2011

THE GIFT OF LOVE

December 23, 2011

Contentment as a Gift at Christmas

December 22, 2011

December 21, 2011

"Census Time"

December 20, 2011

"Why do we celebrate Christmas?"

December 19, 2011

Memories

December 18, 2011

Jesus Showed Us How to Reflect and Radiate

December 17, 2011

Gifts

December 16, 2011

From the Beginning

December 15, 2011

A BABY IN A MANGER

December 14, 2011

Title: Purpose

December 13, 2011

Be at Peace and Take Heart!

December 12, 2011

December 11, 2011

Title: A contagious faith

December 10, 2011

Enthusiastically Sharing the Good News

December 9, 2011

Waiting