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March 10. 2010

Perfection

If you are a sports fan or even if you have watched or read the local news over the past month you cannot help but be aware of the accomplishments of Coach Connie Yori and the Nebraska Women's Basketball Team. On Saturday, the Lady Huskers ran their record to 29 wins and zero losses, a perfect regular season record! This feat has only been accomplished 14 times in women's college basketball history.

The Huskers will play their first Big 12 Conference Tournament game on Friday and shortly thereafter will begin their quest to advance in the NCAA Championship Tournament. It will be interesting and fun to watch to see how far they can advance!

I've heard the word "perfect" mentioned many times so far in regard to the season the Nebraska Women's Basketball team is having. It got me thinking about perfection in general. Isn't it amazing to realize that there have literally been billions of people that have walked on this planet and yet only one was ever perfect, Jesus.

Matthew 5:48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

We will never be perfect, like Christ, however we can strive to be as much like Him as possible. We can seek to love others and put others ahead of ourselves. We will always fall short of perfection, however, if we bring our imperfections to Jesus we can learn from our mistakes and become more like Him.

Dear God, Please help me to recognize that I fall short of who you want me to be. Help me to see how I can become a better person and follow you more closely.
In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

David Pinkerman

March 9

TITLE: Emotions during Lent

SCRIPTURE: Luke 21: 34-36. Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day catch you unexpectedly, like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.

REFLECTION: The Lenton Season provides a time for eqch of us to work on our relationship with God. We have another opportunity to reread the Biblical reference of Jesus' last days before the crucifixion. It is a time to review and rediscover insights of the events of that time.

As I review that special time, I become more aware of the tremendous differences of emotional turmoil that the disciples and followers of Jesus must have experienced. Consider their different stages of emotions as they lived during these events of Jesus' last days:

The Lord's Supper with the disciples
The prediction of Peter's denial
The betrayal of Jesus by Judas
Jesus' arrest
The mocking of Jesus after His arrest
Jesus accused before the Council, before Pilate, before Herrod
Jesus sentenced to death
Jesus nailed on the cross and His death
Jesus buried in the tomb
THE AMAZING RESURRECTION

Can you imagine the many different emotions that were present and the extreme degree of those emotions that were experienced during that period of time?

After rereading Luke 22 and 23 about those events, and as we at Eastridge Church celebrate Lent in 2010, what emotions do you feel? I believe if we really feel those same emotions, our Christian faith should show strength during this Lenten worship period.

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, we give you thanks for another Lenten celebration. Help us to experience the presence of Your Son in our lives so that we might know and feel the joy of His resurrection.

Lauren Holcombe.

March 8, 2010

TITLE: PRAYERS FOR BURMA

SCRIPTURE:  O righteous God, who searches minds and hearts, bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure. Psalm 7:9

REFLECTION: This past week I read an article in "Presbyterians Today" that lit a fire in my heart. It was about a man from Auburn Presbyterian Church in northern California. His name is Bill Michel. His late wife, Esther was a Karen woman from Burma. Our last two refugee families are Karen from Burma. After Esther's death, Bill went to her home country to visit. While there he was so stricken by the violent spiritual and physical oppression of her people, that he felt called to work for change.

Auburn Presbyterian has launched a campaign to rally a billion people praying for Burma the second Sunday of March each year. The web site www.hopeforburma.com is very enlightening. The link to a message from former first lady Laura Bush speaks clearly of the problems.

I pray daily for our Burmese friends in Lincoln, but during this Lenten season and beyond I ask all members of Eastridge Presbyterian to join me in daily prayer for all the people of Burma, for peace, the end of oppression, and life without fear. If you wish, you may go to the website and be counted among the billion. If not, please be counted in God's ear.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, Forgive us for taking our right to worship you freely for granted. Forgive us for forgetting the millions of people on this earth who suffer daily for their belief in You. Father, we ask your blessing on the people of Burma. We ask for change and freedom for them all. We know you can do all things. This is our humble prayer today, an end of the violence of the wicked and peace for the righteous of Burma. We ask this in the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen

Carolyn Fetterley

March 6, 2010

Scripture: "He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor." Proverbs 21:21

Reflection: I am on a committee at work whose task is to come up with "core values" or "standards" for our workplace. We have discussed and attempted to define many words, things like commitment, responsibility, communication, professionalism. At a recent meeting, we were faced with the task of defining "excellence." The consensus was that we all have the potential for excellence, but realistically we do not always achieve it. Excellence is something we strive for, something we pursue. Our committee used this definition: "pursuing extraordinary goals."

After the meeting, I was thinking about excellence as it pertains to the Christian life. Excellent Christians that I know are consistently striving - to seek Him more completely, to surrender more to Him, to know Him better, to serve Him well. Journeying through life's ups and downs, they exhibit "faith excellence" through their kindness, patience, willingness, humility. There may be moments of "excellence", but never without Christ and His love at the center of them.

"How do I love God? By doing beautifully the work I have been given to do, by doing simply that which God entrusted to me, in whatever form it may take." ~ Mother Teresa

Prayer: You alone are excellent Lord! Bless my pursuit to know you, serve you, surrender to you.

Sandy Sunderman

March 5, 2010

TITLE: God's Will

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 27:3-10 Judas, the one who betrayed him, realized that Jesus was doomed. Overcome with remorse, he gave back the thirty silver coins to the high priests, saying, "I've sinned. I've betrayed an innocent man." They said, "What do we care? That's your problem!" Judas threw the silver coins into the Temple and left. Then he went out and hung himself. The high priests picked up the silver pieces, but then didn't know what to do with them. "It wouldn't be right to give this-a payment for murder!-as an offering in the Temple."

Matthew 26:39 Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will."

REFLECTION: Have you ever done or said something that you wished you could take back? Judas was remorseful for betraying Jesus but he couldn't take it back. The high priests also could not put the silver pieces back in the treasurer because they were a payment for murder. The difference between them and Jesus was that Jesus prayed and sought God's will and then followed it.

We should always pray and seek God's will in our lives instead of doing or saying something wrong and then seeking forgiveness.

PRAYER: Lord, thank you for sending Jesus into our world to serve as an example to us. Help us be like him and always seek to do your will.

Janet Mitchell

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March 4, 2010

March 3, 2010

TITLE: What Message Am I Sending?

SCRIPTURE: Acts 1:8. "...And you shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the end of the earth."

REFLECTION: Like a stone thrown into a pond with waves rippling out in concentric circles City Impact believes helping people creates positive waves rippling through our community. Jo Sheets spoke to the Forum Class about what City Impact is doing. This faith based organization is helping children at Clinton, Elliott, and Hartley schools learn to read. They have leadership training for middle schoolers, and classes for adults. I'm glad Eastridge Presbyterian Church contributes funds to City Impact.

But the question arises, "What about us?" We are witnesses all the time. All the time we, too, are creating concentric waves rippling out from all our contacts. Are my witnesses and concentric waves positive or negative? Are they making an impact in my community? Are they helping marginalized people? Are they helping people who are hurting emotionally or physically? Are they helping people who are afraid? City Impact is doing its job, but am I as a Christian?

PRAYER: Lord, help me witness for you. Help me be positive and helpful. Help me be aware of the impact I make not only on the people I meet, but the rippling waves that go forth. Lord, guide me each day. Amen.

Lois Coleman

March 2, 2010

March 1, 2010

Scripture: The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense. Proverbs 27:9 NLT

Reflection: A few weeks ago, I was talking with a coworker who had recently found out her husband was going to be deployed within the next few months. It was evident that she was trying to be strong on the outside but certainly didn't feel that way on the inside. We have had intermittent conversations about his deployment since then but last weekend when they went to Omaha for the briefings, reality set in even more. However, she explained that even though she felt her anxiety level increasing during each new level of preparation they were being introduced to, at the same time, she was so grateful for the strong, unwavering faith her husband has kept throughout their many years of marriage. He implored her not to be caught up in the negative aspects of the changes that were going to affect her and their young daughter; but instead he encouraged her to turn even more of the details over to God and to use this time to deepen her relationship with Him. "Can you imagine what it would be like to be going through something like this and to not believe in God? How would you even begin to cope with it?" she asked. "We are so lucky to have someone that we can turn to anytime we want to or need to and He will always be able to get us through it and point us in the direction we need to be. We could never ask for a better friend than that!" she said.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you so much for continuously being the type of friend that we all long to have. Thank you for continuing to befriend us even when our own thoughts and actions don't necessarily reflect that "two-way street" of a true friend. Amen.

Sue Ann Vice

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February 28, 2010

SCRIPTURE: Jesus summoned His twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every kind of disease and every kind of sickness. Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; and James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed Him. Matthew 10:1-4

As Jesus went on from there, He saw a man called Matthew sitting in the tax collector's booth and He said to him, "Follow Me!" And he got up and followed Him. Then it happened that as Jesus was reclining at the table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were dining with Jesus and His disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they said to His disciples, "Why is your Teacher eating with the tax collectors and sinners?" But when Jesus heard this, He said, "It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick. Matthew 9:9-12

REFLECTION: I am sure that many of you have wondered as I have, why did Jesus call the men he did to be his disciples. For now, I am thinking of Matthew. Matthew was a despised tax collector. They were known for cheating and taking money for themselves. They were disliked by all. From all the tax collectors, why was Matthew chosen? Was he a leader among the tax collectors? Was he well know and did he influence the other tax collectors?. Did Jesus know that if Matthew came other tax collectors would follow? We know none of this as fact from scripture but it is just some thoughts. What are your thoughts? We do know that there were other tax collectors that Jesus was eating with, as the scripture says that he was eating with the tax collectors and sinners. Did Jesus know that through Matthew he could reach others?

More than any other disciple, Matthew had a clear idea of how much it would cost to follow Jesus, Yet he did not hesitate a moment. When he left his tax-collecting booth he guaranteed himself unemployment. Several other disciples could always return to fishing. Two changes happened to Matthew when he decided to follow Jesus, First, Jesus gave him a new life. He was not just accepting a different way of life, he was now an accepted person. Second, Jesus gave Matthew a new purpose for his skills. The only tool from his past job that he carried with him was his pen. From the beginning, God had made him a record-keeper. Matthew was a keen observer, and he undoubtedly recorded what he saw going on around him.

Matthew's experience points out that each of us, from the beginning, is one of God's works in progress. Much of what God has for us he gives long before we are able to consciously respond to him. He trusts us with skills and abilities ahead of schedule. Matthew couldn't have known that God would use the very skills he had sharpened as a tax collector to record the greatest story ever lived. What about us? Will we respond to the "Follow Me" and use our skills as Matthew did no matter what the cost.

PRAYER: Lord, we sit in awe of you for your wisdom, knowledge, and the different skills you give each of us. Help us to respond to you as Matthew did and to "Follow You" no matter the cost. Open our hearts so that we can respond as you would want us to. Amen

Marilyn (Jones) Albin

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February 27, 2010

Title: Blinded By the Light

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:7 For we live by believing and not by seeing.

Reflection: Yawn, brr, scrape, grunt. Do these sounds seem familiar? It is likely that every morning these sounds resonate habitually as we climb out of bed, step outside into the frosty morning air, scrape the ice off the car windows and grunt our mediocre approval "that will do." It has been a cold winter, that's for sure. Well, that was my icebreaker for this devotion.

Why are you willing to (or lucky enough to have your spouse) wake up twenty minutes earlier than normal, go outside in the cold, and clear off your ice-covered windows? This should be an easy one: so you can see while you drive! We value our sight in many ways: to convince us Lebron James made that unbelievable three pointer, to sit awestruck as we view Olympic athletes compete in numerous competitions, or to disprove someone when he says the sky is not blue (although at this point if he said it was white I'd believe him). Of course, God knows how much we rely on our sight; he created us! He wants us to enjoy and take pleasure in the majesty of the Earth, with and without snow!

God does not always show himself though, at least not as we expect. He may have blessed us with eyes, but desires us to believe by faith. It is this faith that guarantees us salvation, an eternal house in heaven. Obviously God is glad that you choose to drive with plenty of sight, but how much more glad will He be if you live by faith?

Prayer: Thank you God that you give me the ability to see great things. Help me to use my sight for good, and only your purposes. Help me to be more willing to believe in you by faith, and not by sight or proof. You have already made enough clear for me to believe. During this Lenten season, help me to be aware of your presence and your great love. Amen

Benjamin Crelin

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February 26, 2010

TITLE: We are Christ's Faithful Followers.

SCRIPTURE:  Psalm 118:24.  This is the day the Lord hath made, we will rejoice and be glad in it.

REFLECTION: We are Christ's faithful followers, who have been called by God to love deeply, to Grow Spiritually, and share abundantly.

We need to have a purpose in life, a goal for the future. Every morning when we begin a new day, we need to say that this IS the day the Lord hath made. A friend of mine told me that she plans to do something for a friend each and every day. She started corresponding with the inmates, prisoners at the State Penitentiary. She found this to be very gratifying. She said that she even led one prisoner to Christ.

God's hand works in mysterious ways. He alone knows what is best for us. We must show His love to others. It is amazing and wonderful how the influence and life of one person can affect the lives of others. We must realize the great responsibilities God has placed in the hands of each one of us. In 2 Thessalonians 3:13 we read: But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good. Sometimes monotony sets in. The results are few. We wonder, what's the use? We are ready to quit.

Paul, however, said that good works always produce a harvest if we do not give up. One day, in God's timing, all our hard work will be rewarded. Years ago I saw a man who handed out gospel tracts on a street corner. But after a while of not seeing anyone trust Christ as Savior, he quit. However, two years later he happened to pass that same familiar corner and saw a person handing out tracts. He walked over to the stranger and struck up a conversation. He learned that a little more than 2 years earlier the man had become a Christian after reading a tract that he had received at that same corner.

God has a great purpose and plan for every one of us. Every person in this world has a significant role to play. He calls us to do great things.

A young girl whose father was a chronic grumbler said to her mother, "I know what everybody in this family likes. Johnny likes hamburgers, Jane likes ice cream, Willie likes bananas, and Mommy likes chicken." The father irked because he had not been included in the list, asked, "what about me? What do I like?" The innocent little one replied, "You like everything we haven't got."

The following poem says it all:

I thank you, God, for this new day. You made the sun to rise,

To tint the blue

A glorious hue

And flood the morning skies.

I thank you, God, for this new day.
Your help I must employ

at the close of the day

as I kneel to pray my heart if filled with joy.

For this one day, I thank you God. No unkind deed I pray,

           but all the while a kindly smile

for the gift of another day.

With the help of God, we can step confidently into tomorrow knowing that He will he with us.

PRAYER: Go into the world in faith, trusting God to lead us, trusting people to receive us. Go into the world of hope, with God's presence before us and dreams to carry us. Go into the world with love. Go dear people of God, in faith, hope and love. May God's peace be with you and may His love be a song in your heart. Amen.

Robert Schiebinger.

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February 25, 2010

TITLE: My Way or the Highway

SCRIPTURE: Romans 14:17 For the Kingdom of God does not mean food and drink but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

Romans 14:19 Let us then pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding. RSV

REFLECTION: I was not familiar with the hymn that we sang on February 14th, "The Kingdom of God is Justice and Joy", and so I looked up the scriptural reference as reflected in the hymnal. I found this part of the book of Romans full of very contemporary advice. Although the scripture speaks a great deal about dietary preference, this seems to be a metaphor for all the ways in which we judge others. How often do we get hung up on little differences in belief, in dress, in preferences? Do we spend more time criticizing rather than supporting our family members, friends, colleagues at home, at work at school even at church? God reminds us that judgment is not our job it is His and He really doesn't need our help.

This Lenten season is a good opportunity for us to make a commitment to living our lives as reflected in this hymn - The Kingdom of God is Justice, Joy, Mercy, Grace, Challenge and Choice.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank you for your guidance in not judging other people and forgive us when we forget. In Jesus Name, we pray. Amen

Kathy Kuehn 

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February 24, 2010

TITLE: Daniel's Prayer - A Message for Lent

SCRIPTURE: Daniel 9:1-19 In the first year of Darius son of Ahasuerus (a Mede by descent), who was made ruler over the Babylonian kingdom - in the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, understood from the Scriptures, according to the word of the Lord given to Jeremiah the prophet, that the desolation of Jerusalem would last seventy years. So I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with him in prayer and petition, in fasting, and in sackcloth and ashes.

I prayed to the Lord my God and confessed: "O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with all who love him and obey his commands, we have sinned and done wrong. We have been wicked and have rebelled; we have turned away from your commands and laws. We have not listened to your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our princes and our fathers, and to all the people of the land.

"Lord, you are righteous, but this day we are covered with shame-the men of Judah and people of Jerusalem and all Israel, both near and far, in all the countries where you have scattered us because of our unfaithfulness to you. O Lord, we and our kings, our princes and our fathers are covered with shame because we have sinned against you. The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him; we have not obeyed the Lord our God or kept the laws he gave us through his servants the prophets. All Israel has transgressed your law and turned away, refusing to obey you.

"Therefore the curses and sworn judgments written in the Law of Moses, the servant of God, have been poured out on us, because we have sinned against you. You have fulfilled the words spoken against us and against our rulers by bringing upon us great disaster. Under the whole heaven nothing has ever been done like what has been done to Jerusalem. Just as it is written in the Law of Moses, all this disaster has come upon us, yet we have not sought the favor of the Lord our God by turning from our sins and giving attention to your truth. The Lord did not hesitate to bring the disaster upon us, for the Lord our God is righteous in everything he does; yet we have not obeyed him.

"Now, O Lord our God, who brought your people out of Egypt with a mighty hand and who made for yourself a name that endures to this day, we have sinned, we have done wrong. O Lord, in keeping with all your righteous acts, turn away your anger and your wrath from Jerusalem, your city, your holy hill. Our sins and the iniquities of our fathers have made Jerusalem and your people an object of scorn to all those around us.

"Now, our God, hear the prayers and petitions of your servant. For your sake, O Lord, look with favor on your desolate sanctuary. Give ear, O God, and hear; open your eyes and see the desolation of the city that bears your Name. We do not make requests of you because we are righteous, but because of your great mercy. O Lord, listen! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, hear and act! For your sake, O my God, do not delay, because your city and your people bear your Name. (NIV)

REFLECTION: The prayer of Daniel offered as the Israelites neared the end of their captivity in Babylon cites themes that are appropriate for the season of Lent. This ancient prayer provides a model for 21st century Christians as they strive to examine their relationship with the Lord and journey to the glory of Easter.

PRAYER: Give us O Lord, steadfast hearts, which no unworthy thought can drag downwards; unconquered hearts, which no tribulation can wear out; upright hearts, which no unworthy purpose may tempt aside. Bestow upon us also, O Lord God, understanding to know you, diligence to seek you, wisdom to find you, and a faithfulness that may finally embrace you, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Thomas `a Kempis, 15th century)

Gail Keown

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February 23, 2010

TITLE: A REALIZATION

SCRIPTURE: In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. Genesis 1:1-2

REFLECTION: I laid the piece of mail on the counter and told Bryce I wanted to view the DVD inside it even if it made me angry. I felt a certain anger when I walked up the curved walkway in the American Museum of Natural History in New York City because God seemed to be left out of the making of the world. I expected the Smithsonian CHRONICLES DVD Series "How the Earth Was Made," to give me the same --God left out-- feeling.

As we watched the DVD I began to see all that God had to do to make the earth habitable for humans. It left me awestruck. As it told of the comets coming, the unbelievable heat and fiery lava and then turned to the ice ages, it made me realize how small a window of heat and cold we as humans need to live. Then he put the water and light on earth before he gave us life. He then gave us Living Water through his son so we may spend eternity with him.

PRAYER: Thank you God for making the world habitable for us. The earth is an awesome creation. We believe you have control over it all. The experience of a cold winter doesn't give us fear or the heat of a hot summer week because we know you are responsible for making and monitoring the world as it is.

Sandra Hilsabeck 

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February 22, 2010

SCRIPTURE:  May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine upon us. Psalm 67:1 (NIV)

REFLECTION:  I believe that God makes his face shine upon us in many, many ways. Have you ever heard as many complaints about the winter weather as we have all heard this year? It seems that this is the main topic of conversation regardless of the group, event, or situation in which we gather with others. Many people seem to look upon the snow as just another problem in their lives, either because they have to shovel their driveways and walkways, or they dislike driving in the snow or they don't like having to dress for the cold weather, among lots of other complaints.

Do you remember some of the past summers when there was such a drought that farmers lost most of their crops, that water was in such short supply that we were all asked to water our lawns on a specific schedule rather than on a daily basis? Just imagine what our summer will be like this year with 30+ inches of snow that will melt and provide that wonderful needed moisture for July and August when it has been routinely dry and hot.

God is gracious to us and makes his face to shine upon us. He is watching over our needs by providing the moisture that will be needed by farmers in Nebraska as well as all of us who will need to water our lawns, etc. God truly is gracious to us and blesses us in so many wonderful ways. He truly makes his face to shine upon us by providing for our needs. Let us thank God for the marvelous blessings that he bestows on each of us.

PRAYER:  Our Heavenly Father, thank you for being gracious to us in so many wonderful ways and for the many blessings that you bestow on each of us. Please continue to make your face shine upon us and be with us in everything that we do and in all that we say. In your name we pray. Amen

Linda Douglas

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February 21, 2010

TITLE: You Will Stumble

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 37:23-24, "Our steps are made firm by the LORD, when he delights in our way; though we stumble, we shall not fall headlong, for the LORD holds us by the hand."

REFLECTION:  A few years ago, when my daughter was about the size of a gnome, I would regularly take her to day care in the morning. On a typical morning it took the two of us roughly ten minutes to walk from our seminary apartment to the day care facility - a distance of about one residential block! She would stop to look at squirrels, stoop to pick up sticks, and slink along at a snail's pace. Especially when she was first learning to walk, I had no other choice but to hold her hand. If I did not help her she would lose focus and even worse, fall flat on her face.

Needless to say, stumbling was a common occurrence. In fact, it was inevitable, a necessary part of learning to walk. My daughter did not like it and it kind of annoyed me, but we both knew that she could not learn to walk without an occasional fall.

The psalmist accepts stumbling as an inevitable part of walking with God. Rather than cursing God for letting him fall, he thanks God for not letting him fall too far. It seems that stumbling, although uncomfortable and perhaps humiliating, is an integral part of our spiritual journey. For one reason or another God allows it.

I'm not always sure why God allows stumbling. Why doesn't the all-powerful Creator stop it before it happens? I don't know. What I do know is that holding God's hand is better than going it alone. In Psalm 37:5 the psalmist declares, "Commit your way to the LORD, trust in him, and he will act." The distractions along the way are numerous. Temptation is powerful. Pain is profound. Evil is ubiquitous. Nevertheless, God stands, feet firmly planted and hand outstretched, ready to guide you down the path.  

PRAYER: Lord, I'm afraid of falling! When I fall give me the courage to grasp hold of the hand that is already holding me. Amen.

 J.P. Carlson 

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February 20, 2010

DEVOTION: Resting in His Promises

SCRIPTURE: "For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth." Job 19:25.

". . .and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world." --Matthew28:20.

MEDITATION: It is easy to become fearful and depressed these days when the ideals and certainties of our youth seem to be falling away and the daily paper brings news of a world that seems to be going smash. Sometimes late at night, I like to sit and listen to quiet music. At such moments, the world seems to stand still and everything appears to have found its old place. Tonight, I was listening to Handel's "Messiah," and the lovely melody and words, "I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand," brought me comfort. I hadn't realized that the words had been originally spoken by Job, who had lost everything yet remained steadfast in his belief in God and his faithfulness.

Our redeemer, our savior, is Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the God who holds the universe in his grasp and who holds us in his hand. Jesus has promised strength for the day and his ultimate triumph over the sins and troubles of the world. He does not promise a smooth road, but he promises his faithfulness and lovingkindness-to the end..

His promise is sure. He will stand with us in the latter days and lead us then into eternal life with him. We can be certain of that, and we can find comfort and courage during the heat of the day and the quiet hours of the night.

PRAYER: Our Father, In the dark days, send us your light and teach us to keep our focus upon the bringer of hope and salvation, your Son, Jesus Christ. Sustain us and give us peace. In His name, Amen.

Keith M. Heim

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February 19, 2010

Scripture: Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted. Psalm 25:16

Reflection: In our study of "The Shack" this week, we talked about judges. We discussed the characteristics we attribute to judges: intimidating, knowledgeable, fair, impartial, and willing to listen. One word that was not mentioned in class: lonely. I work for a judge, and I recall that after he had been on the bench for a few years, he commented that it can be a lonely job.

In the legal world, judges come from the ranks of attorneys. But once a person becomes a judge, he or she has to be careful about appearing to be friends with lawyers who might have cases before the judge. And a judge often has to make decisions that are not popular. These two factors can lead to a sense of isolation-and loneliness.

In our discussion of "The Shack," we talked about God as a judge and how He compares to a human judge. God is fair, impartial, and willing to listen-all characteristics we look for in a human judge. Can God feel lonely? I don't know the answer, but I know that He is always with me, even when I turn away from Him.

There is a difference between being alone and being lonely. If we learn to trust in God and know that He is always with us, there is no need to be lonely even during those times when no one else is around. God alone rules over all the kingdoms of the earth, but can He be lonely? Maybe we need to ask ourselves, "If He is always with me, why am I not always with Him?"

Prayer: Dear Lord, You alone are God. You are ever present and can provide solace when we are lonely. We are never alone. Help us to strive to always be with you, as you are always with us.

Robin Hadfield

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February 18, 2010

Title:  Tragedy and Redemption

Scripture: Philippians 4:6, 7   Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Reflections:  It is January 14^th as I am writing this and news reports are coming in continually concerning the human disaster in Haiti in the aftermath of the earthquake.  "Why God, oh why?"  This has been my prayer, over and over.   

As a child, I would ask my mother why God lets these types of disasters, which cause so much human misery, to happen.  Her answer was simply that this is not for us to ponder.   I am still asking this question.  But this time I understand we are not to know all these answers in this life.  But, there is far more to know here.

Does this mean that we hear these things and say, "Oh well, it is God's will"?  I think not.  God has given us our blessings to do what we can to alleviate or at least aid in comforting those that have lost so much.  We can give our resources and time.  But we need not feel overwhelmed and helpless.  The most important thing that we can do for ourselves and our questions is to pray continually and say to God, "What can I do?  Use me."   

The author of the hymn, It is Well with my Soul suffered tragic loss and pain in the drowning of many of his family members.  Instead of turning his back on God and giving up, Horatio Spafford wrote one of the most beautiful hymns that we sing on Sunday morning.   In the second verse he writes:

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,

Let this blest assurance control,

That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,

And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

Prayer:   Thank you God, for giving us prayer so that we are never alone with our difficult thoughts.  We trust in your master plan and know that you are indeed God of all you have created.  Help us to come first to You with our questions, knowing that you are the answer.  "The peace that passes all understanding" is your holy, gracious answer that comes through Jesus our Savior.   Amen

Mary Lienemann

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February 17, 2010

Title: Freedom to choose God

Scripture: Jeremiah 29: 11-14 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. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the Lord,

If you love something, let it go. If it comes back to you, it's yours forever. If it doesn't, then it was never meant to be. Anonymous

Reflection: The goal of raising children is to prepare them to be the people God created them to be. As parents we are frequently told we must give children two things: roots and wings; the roots are to keep them grounded through tough times and the wings are for soaring and for exploring new worlds. It takes a lot of love, and courage and trust to give them each of these. What if things go wrong? What if they make bad choices and lose it all? What if they leave and don't want to come back?

As a parent of young adults it is wonderful to look at them and see people I really like; people I would want to be with even if they weren't related to me. Another of the great satisfactions is the joy of knowing that while they have come to the place in their life where they have freedom to do anything they want, they sometimes choose to spend their free time with me. It makes me very happy to know that when we're together it's because they have chosen it - not out of requirement or guilt, but because of love - because they choose my presence, my help, or my listening ear.

Our Father God, in His great love, has given us freedoms as well. He has given me the freedom to turn away or to ignore Him, or to seek out His company, His wisdom, His knowledge. I can choose a relationship. I can, and do, choose to spend time in prayer or to hear His advice and wisdom in the Bible. I don't do it because I'll be punished if I don't. Sometimes I do choose to ignore God, to avoid His presence, to try to take care of everything myself. But I miss this relationship, the separation, and I always come back. When I do, I always know I am welcome.

Prayer: Thank you God that you give me the freedom to make choices. Sometimes I make good choices and sometimes I make ones that cause harm to myself or others, and sometimes I create separation between us. I thank you that YOU never leave me and you always welcome me back. During this Lenten season, help me to be very aware of your presence and your great love. Amen

Lori Snyder-Sloan

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February 16, 2010

Finding Hope in Love

Scripture: O Israel, put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love and with him is full redemption. He himself will redeem Israel from all their sins. Psalm 130: 7-8

Reflection: As the cold of this winter hangs on, I find myself, and the people around me, needing hope. Many of us are searching for more sunlight in the sky, more warmth in the air, and the sounds of the birds' prelude to spring.

God's love is unfailing. Only His love is powerful enough to break the winter of our souls and bring full redemption. The warmth and strength of His love will thaw every icy grip of sin in our souls. That is the springtime I am hoping for. Though my spirit is unresponsive and chilled this season, I know the spirit's life is deep within, waiting for the day of its blooming.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, teach us to know your unfailing love and the hope that springs from it. You are our warmth, our breath, and our life. Thank you for abiding in us through this winter.
Amen

Angie Berkebile

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February 15, 2010

 I Corinthians 13:4,7 Love is patient, Love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud...It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Devotion: Praise him, praise him all ye little children- God is Love or Jesus loves me, this I know. Both songs sung as a child still resound in our memories as an adult .

In fact, many times, when I am afraid or working at something with my hands or cooking for someone else, I hear myself either whistling or humming or even singing. If someone asks me "What is that?", I have to come back to the world to answer as the hymn was so much a part of me that I was totally unaware of my actions. Jesus Loves Me - He Loves You. What a blessing! I hope you share your life everyday with him and especially now as Lent comes once again.

Prayer: As Lent begins this Wednesday and the cross again looms in the very near future, let us remember and sing God's praises in song, word and deed.

Carolyn F. Olsen

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February 14, 2010

SCRIPTURE: For I will sing to the Lord, for he has been good to me. Psalm 13:6

REFLECTION: I remember as a child, I was only interested in the music and songs that the choir would sing in church. I was too young to understand the biblical scriptures, the verses or even the message coming from the preacher. I was even too young to understand why I was going to church, but whenever my mother, my aunt or my grandmother took me and my brothers and sisters to church it was the songs that made the biggest imprint on my soul.

Today, I love music, especially gospel music. I have attended many religious services of different denominations and cultures (Catholic, Presbyterian, Methodist, Baptist, Seven Day Adventist, Baha'I, Buddhist, Islam, and others) and they all include music or songs in their worship services. Even in the Book of Revelation it says that, "They held harps given them by God and sang the song of Moses the servant of God and the song of the Lamb.: (Rev. 15:3)

It's really no miracle that even God likes music, just like us. Amen.

I'll always keep my heart open forever and ever and ever to the spirituality of songs that empowers me with God's love.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, you have always been with me, and when I did not have the time to read from the scriptures, I heard the songs that uplifted my Spirit. They let me know that you're always with me while I am rejoicing with gospel sounds of your great love. Amen.

Ki-Raka Atwater 

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February 12, 2010

Love

For God so loved the world that He gave His only son, that whosoever believeth in him, shall not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16

If I speak in the tongues[ of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13

February 14 is Valentine's day. Although it isn't quite Valentine's day yet, I was thinking about God's love for us. The scriptures are two of my favorite passages from the Bible.

John 3:16 speaks of a love deeper than deep, higher than high, and wider than wide. It is all encompassing, willing to give everything for us.

1 Corinthians 13 has always been a "recipe" for me. It gives me a path to follow, an ideal for the perfect love.

As Valentine's day draws closer, perhaps you will be like me, and reflect on what all my relationships are like - with friends, parents, brothers and sisters, children, acquaintances, people we see on the street. Perhaps you can contemplate with me about how we can improve those relationships as time goes on.

Dear Lord, you provided an example for us of the perfect love. You described it for us in 1 Corinthians 13. Help us to contemplate this passage, and use it to improve our relationships today. Amen

Laurie Schlitt

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February 11, 2010

See Discernment Sunday Devotions Page

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February 10, 2010

Topic: "Magic Pennies" of Love

Scripture: For though we have never yet seen God, when we love each other God lives in us and God's love within us grows ever stronger. 1 John 4:12

This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. John 15:12

Reflection: As an elementary music teacher, many of the songs and activities I plan for my students to experience throughout the year follow holiday celebrations or significant times of the year. The same thing happens at church when I plan for "Patty's Music" once a month with our pre-school and elementary children. With Valentine's Day just around the corner, I have several favorites we will be singing during this special music time together at church that center around loving others.

Right after the new year began, I started contemplating and making plans for both school and Sunday school for February. Out of the blue, a simple little song came to mind that I haven't taught or thought about in many years. The title of this song is "Magic Penny" and the words go like this:

Love is something if you give it away, give it away, give it away.
Love is something if you give it away, you end up having more.

It's just like a magic penny, hold it tight and you won't have any.
Lend it, spend it, and you'll have so many they'll roll all over the floor.

For love is something if you give it away, give it away, give it away.
Love is something if you give it away, you end up having more.

As I reflected on the words to this song, thoughts of my mom and dad came to mind as they both had a great capacity to love and gave it freely and unconditionally. Their love was not limited to just our immediate family but extended into their small community and beyond. They truly took to heart the words and actions of Jesus' admonition to love others and I witnessed over and over a tremendous amount of their love coming back to them throughout their lives. They were wonderful examples of love in action and were definitely "magic pennies" of love.

Prayer: Dear Lord, we thank you for loving us and providing people in our lives who reflect the love of Jesus in their daily living and giving. May our lives reflect the words to this simple song and may we give of our love unconditionally to others so it continues to flow freely throughout our families, our community and our world. Amen

Patty Niemann

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February 9, 2010

Why?

As he passed by, he saw a man blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" Jesus answered, "It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be made manifest in him  John 9:1-3 (RSV)

For almost a month we have been following the catastrophe that has struck Haiti, the poorest nation in the western hemisphere. Throughout its history it seems that Haiti has known nothing but poverty, disease, hurricanes, dictators, and revolutions. We shake our heads and ask, "What has Haiti done to deserve this?"

Why is there evil? Why do bad things happen to good people? These questions have nagged believers since Biblical times, and are addressed most eloquently in the Old Testament book of Job. In this story Job's "friends" approach this question with a simplistic moral argument. God is omnipotent and God is just. Therefore Job's condition must be punishment for some great sin he committed. But that is contrary to the facts, and the writer of the book of Job indicates that the way to wrestle with these questions is not with logic but with faith.

In John's gospel Jesus provides yet another view. The disciples have reverted to the way of thinking demonstrated by Job's friends: someone's sin must be responsible for this man's affliction. Jesus refuses to get embroiled in some religious debate, but uses this chance meeting to display God's power and compassion. For him the man blind from birth is not an invitation for theological discourse, but an opportunity for action.

So maybe the question about Haiti that we should be asking isn't "Why did this happen?", but "How are we going to respond?"

Prayer: "Lord, when did we see thee hungry and feed thee, or thirsty and give thee drink? And when did we see thee a stranger and welcome thee, and naked and clothe thee? And when did we see thee sick or in prison and visit thee?

Bill Wehrbein 

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February 8, 2010

PRAISE HIM IN ALL THINGS

Praise the Lord, all you nations; extol him, all you peoples. For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever Praise the Lord. Psalm 117

I will praise you, O Lord with all my heart; before the "gods" I will sing your praise, I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness. For you have exalted above all things your name and your word,....Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes, with your right hand you save me.....your love, O Lord, endures forever-do not abandon the works of your hands. Psalm 138: 1,2,7,&8

REFLECTION: The past week or so, I was watching the "reality" show "18 and counting" about the Dugger family in Arkansas who are raising all the children God wants to give them as Christians. Michele was expecting number 19 when she was taken very ill with an inflamed gall bladder. Taken to the hospital, she was stabilized but began to have a spiking blood pressure and was life-flighted to Little Rock for specialty care if it became necessary for her 25-week baby.

All the family joined in prayer for her, from the 3 yr old up. I was very touch when her husband paused outside the operating room to pray and praise God. He said, "We praise you in the good times. We also praise you in this time of trial because we know you are with us."

I do not know if the 1 ½ pound baby will survive, but I am inspired by their faith that they are following God's plan for them, that they praise God and thank Him for the miracle of her birth. And, I am sure they will turn to Him for comfort and acceptance if it is His plan to take her home.

I was also moved in the aftermath of the Haiti earthquake, when we saw video of Christian Haitians singing and praising God in the midst of the horror of rubble that had become their city. With no water, no food, no home, loved ones crushed and dead, yet they sang praises to God. I am humbled by their faith.

I don't usually make New Year's Resolutions, but this year I will learn to praise Him in all things.

Heavenly Father, I praise you. Though I am unworthy, you never fail to see me through hard times. You lift me up and sustain me. You bless me with great abundance. Please remind me that you are always the constant Lord and I want to be constant in praise of you. In Jesus' name, Amen

Carolyn Fetterley 

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February 7, 2010

Ephesians 6:18  Pray at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.

I probably have used this prayer previously in a devotion, but I feel it is worthy of a repeat. Read  it initially as a prayer, and then read it again, thinking about each line and praising God, our creator, protector, and redeemer.

An Irish Prayer

May the Strength of God guide us.
May the Power of God preserve us.
May the Wisdom of God instruct us.
May the Hand of God protect us.
May the Way of God direct us.
May the Shield of God defend us.
May the Angels of God guard us.

Against the snares of the evil one.

May Christ be with us!
May Christ be before us!
May Christ be in us, Christ be over all!

May Thy Grace, Lord, Always be ours,
This day, O Lord, and forevermore. Amen.

Nancy Hall 

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February 6, 2010

Title: Christian Caring

Scripture: "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." James 1:27

"I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in . . . whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." Matthew 25:35, 40

Reflection: In both of these scriptures, we hear clear teaching that actions speak louder than words. Certainly, as believers, we are called to confess our faith in Jesus Christ, but we are also called to personal holiness and to bear witness to God's love and compassion by acts of charity in Jesus' name.

The hymn sung before the message on Sunday spoke of human sorrow, pain and death in the wake of the devastating earthquake in Haiti. The third and fourth stanzas could be our prayer invocating the response of God and His church to this tragedy:

O God, you love your children; you hear each lifted prayer!
May all who suffer in that land know you are present there.
In moments of compassion shown, in simple acts of grace,
May those in pain find healing balm, and know your love's embrace.

Where are you in the anguish? Lord, may we hear anew
That anywhere your world cries out, you're there-and suffering, too.
And may we see, in others' pain, the cross we're called to bear;
Send out your church in Jesus' name to pray, to serve, to share.

Judy Heaston

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February 4, 2010

Title: Every moment should be worship

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

What are you planning to do today? That is a familiar question to us and most of us usually have some kind of idea or purpose to what we are doing. However, has anyone ever asked you, "How are you doing what you are doing today?" I think this is a better question to ask because we always have a choice in ‘how' we will do things. We can't always choose what we will do as there are circumstances and situations beyond our control but we can always choose the attitude behind ‘how we do' things.

In the 3rd chapter of Colossians, Paul is writing to followers of Christ, encouraging a lifestyle of holiness and worship. My favorite word in verse 17 is the word ‘whatever'. Whatever you do means everything you do, every action, every word. No part of our life is outside this direction to live every moment for Jesus Christ in gratitude to God our Father. This means that every second of life is an opportunity for worship, a chance to glorify God. Every situation of our life is full of purpose and possibility to honor God, not just by doing the right thing, but by doing everything with the right attitude, in the right spirit (one of thankfulness, faith, love, etc...)

Yes, this is easy to say but hard to do with what is going on in our lives. It's not just hard to do ‘everything' as worship to Jesus, it is impossible. At least, it's impossible on our own but through God's strength and Christ's resurrection power every part of our life can be transformed into a moment of worship.

Prayer: Lord, please help me cultivate a heart of gratitude to you. You have given me more blessings than I can count. Thank you for friends, for family, for warm homes, for books to read, for food to eat, for ways to serve, for opportunities to love. Amen.

Cindy Thomson

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February 3, 2010

TITLE: Give God All the Credit

SCRIPTURES: 1 Peter 4:11 If you speak, you should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If you serve, you should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. (TNIV)
1 Peter 4:10-11 Be generous with the different things God gave you, passing them around so all get in on it: if words, let it be God's words; if help, let it be God's hearty help. That way, God's bright presence will be evident in everything through Jesus, and he'll get all the credit as the One mighty in everything... (The Message)

Romans 11:36 For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen. (TNIV)

2 Corinthians 3:5 Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. (TNIV)

Romans 12:3 ...Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. (TNIV)
Romans 12:3 ...Living then, as every one of you does, in pure grace, it's important that you not misinterpret yourselves as people who are bringing this goodness to God. No, God brings it all to you. The only accurate way to understand ourselves is by what God is and by what he does for us, not by what we are and what we do for him. (The Message)

Matthew 23:12 For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. (TNIV)
Matthew 23:11-12 Do you want to stand out? Then step down. Be a servant. If you puff yourself up, you'll get the wind knocked out of you. But if you're content to simply be yourself, your life will count for plenty. (The Message)

REFLECTION: Humility is something I'm really working on. When I do something well, I usually remember to thank God for his help. This is a good first step, but I know I can do better. You see, I don't give Him ALL the credit; I want to take some for myself. I try not to brag about or flaunt my abilities, but deep down that feeling of pride sneaks in. It feels good when someone compliments me, so I say "thank you", but don't follow it with any words to let them know that God did it-not me. Giving God the credit should go beyond our minds, into our hearts, and pass through our lips!

God deserves the glory-our Creator, Sustainer and Redeemer! He's all-powerful and in control. Without God, we're nothing-we depend on him for everything. We aren't competent to do what He's called us to do in our own strength; our natural talents can get us only so far. Through his awesome gift of the Holy Spirit though, we're empowered to use our abilities to help others. We want them to see Jesus in us and praise him for the help they've received. Jesus says, "Let your light shine before men, that they may see your deeds and praise your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)

Remaining humble is difficult-pride just keeps knocking at the door. It will help, though, if I try to make loving and serving God most important in my heart. If I take the time to truly appreciate who God is and how very, very much He's given me, I think my heart will be so full of praise, there'll be little room left for pride.

PRAYER: Dear God, I'd like to give you ALL the credit for this devotion and all the other good things you've done through me. May others be blessed by your words and give you the glory you so deserve. Amen.

(This devotion has quotes and paraphrases from my Life Application Study Bible Notes.)

Sharon Irvin 

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February 2, 2010

Proverbs 29:23 Pride ends in a fall, while humility brings honor.

THE BIRD OF PARADISE

The bird of paradise can be
Many different colors.
There are several species-
Each is different from the others.

They range from just five inches long
To almost thirty-eight.
Some are rather plain.
But most of them are quite ornate.

The male displays his feathers bright,
Bowing to show his crown.
Some species are peculiar,
And display hanging upside down.

They dance and sway and posture
To attract a future mate.
When mating time is over,
The displays soon abate!

The bird of paradise is closely related to the bowerbird. It has stout legs and feet and a heavy bill. It is found in New Guinea and in Australia, and also in offshore islands in those areas. It feeds on fruit and insects, with an occasional lizard or small animal for an additional treat. It is truly proud of its plumage and shows it to great advantage. Sometimes we tend to be somewhat like the bird of paradise. We are tempted to show off in one way or another. Our possessions, abilities, Knowledge, talents. It is here that the devil nudges us and uses the sin of pride. Let us remember that undue pride in self brings destruction-but joyous pride in our God brings humility.

Dear Father in Heaven, I pray that I may always remember that without You, I would be as nothing. I would have nothing. You created all - and all that I have and all that I am is Yours, dear Lord.

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

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February 1, 2010

Psalms 108:2-5 Wake up, O harp and lyre! We will meet the deep with song. I will praise you everywhere around the world, in every nation. For your loving kindness is great beyond measure, high as the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches the skies. His glory is far more vast than the heavens. It towers above the earth.

THE GIBBON

Who is the smallest
In the whole ape family?
The species is the gibbon,
And he swings from tree to tree.

His legs are very long,
And his arms are longer yet.
His hands are long and slender,
And his thumbs are socket-set.

The gibbon has a "great call"-
A series of vocal sounds
That he uses at sunrise,
Or weather turnarounds.

It's a joy to watch him journey on,
Swinging from branch to branch.
He moves with such confidence,
Leaving nothing to chance.

The gibbon uses its strange call as a location signal or when sighting a troup of other gibbons. The call varies with the species. The gibbon greets a change in weather with its "great call" - and also heralds the sunrise. Let us too greet the dawn with a "great call" - a cry of joy to the Lord for all He has done and continues to do for us, His children. Truly, He is everywhere - His love and kindness envelop us. He is always faithful. Always true.

Dear Heavenly Father, help me to realize and appreciate all that You do for me. When I am feeling down and out, help me to praise You all the more - for I know I need to experience those bad times in order to grow. Help me to treat each day, Lord, as a learning experience - greeting each new dawn with a "great call" of thanksgiving and praise.

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

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January 31, 2010

TITLE: WALKING WITH CONFIDENCE

SCRIPTURE: for the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being snared. (Proverbs 3: 26 NIV)

REFLECTION: We have had so much fog recently that my walks to catch the bus in the morning have been rather scary. I have had to walk really slow with the icy streets and sidewalks. I finally decided I needed to purchase a pair of No Slip Ice Grips for my shoes. WOW! The next morning, I walked to the bus with much more confidence.

Just like being able to walk on the ice with confidence because my shoes are better equipped, I can also face each new day knowing God is with me every step of the way. God gives me the confidence to face any obstacles in my path.

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for providing me with confidence to face each new day knowing you are there with me. Amen.

Dee Ann Dilley  

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January 30, 2010

Building Strong Foundations

SCRIPTURE: "Anyone who listens to my teachings and obeys me is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Through the rain comes in torrents and the flood waters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won't collapse, because it is built on rock. But anyone who hears my teachings and ignores it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will fall with a mighty crash." Matthew 7:24-27

REFLECTION: Recently during the 11:00 Sunday School class, I showed a video about the house built on solid rock and the house built on sand. We watched visually and then talked about what it was telling us- 2 years olds- 7 year olds. This parable is relevant to adults too. In Jesus' parable in Matthew, Jesus used the language of a carpenter, which was his background. His point was that living life is like constructing a house, it needs to be placed on a firm foundation and your life will weather any storm. If it is built and remains on a sandy foundation, it will wash away. Our life needs to be built and remain on the foundation of Jesus' teachings and obey those teachings. It is a constant building and rebuilding process and we need to reexamine our foundation constantly.

We often see others building on shaky ground and being on shaky ground and we need to help others and not ignore Christ's message.

Our foundation should be built on Jesus' teachings and the resulting foundation will include obeying Jesus' teachings, talking to God in prayer, being a disciple of Christ daily, being helpful, loving others, and being kind to others and not being selfish.

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father. Thank you for Jesus' parable about the house built on the rock and the house built on sandy ground. Guide us in remaining in the HOUSE ON A FIRM FOUNDATION. Amen

Susan Taylor 

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January 29, 2010

CONTENTMENT

SCRIPTURE: I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4: 11-13

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 1 Timothy 6: 6-8

REFLECTION: When I was visiting my mother several months ago, I noticed a brief message on her daily devotional calendar which said something like, "The poorest man in the world is the one who has everything he needs but thinks it is not enough." We often think that one more thing---new car, big screen TV, latest electronic gadget, etc.---will make us happy. About 300 years before the birth of Christ, the Greek philosopher Epicurus is said to have responded when asked the secret of happiness, "Add not to a man's possessions, but take away from his desires." In his letters, the Apostle Paul reminds early Christians to "put our hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment."

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank You for the teaching of Paul and other wise men whose words direct us away from our selfish desires. It is in knowing You that we can be content without having everything we want. We can honor and glorify You by being "rich in good deeds, generous and willing to share." Amen

Judith Keller

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January 28, 2010

SCRIPTURE: The record of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of Abraham: Matthew 1:1

"She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins." Matthew 1:21

Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him." When Herod the king heard this he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. Matthew 2 1-3

REFLECTION; We started our new Precepts Bible Study this week and it is on Matthew this time and after just the first week I am excited about it, so I will have to share it with you as we go along. There is so much in just the first weeks lesson that I will use only a small part of it and some of the points that were important to me at this time.

Matthew wrote his book to prove that Jesus is the Messiah, the Savior, the eternal King. And the eternal part is of importance as Herod was also know as the King of the Jews but he was king by appointment. Matthew wrote the book to the Jews and it is the link between the Old Testament and the New Testament after a silence of 400 years. One would begin to wonder about ones God after so long a silence.

Matthew starts with the genealogy of Jesus to answer the question of where is God? This genealogy tells us (1) who owns what, (2) who you are, your identity, and (3) who gets the throne. Jesus genealogy was traced through Joseph as a descendant of David. However, both Mary and Joseph were direct descendants of David. This was of importance as the covenant was made through David and Abraham. Also, since Herod was King of the Jews by appointment he was afraid of Jesus kingship and thus tried to stop Him from that kingship. At this time, many did not understand that Jesus was not an earthly king but a heavenly king.

God had promised Abraham that he would be a great nation, have a great name, and the land. Also he would be a blessing to all or to the world. It is through him that all nations are blessed. God said that I will bless all who bless you and I will curse all who curse you. This was a seed (Christ) promised to Abraham. Then God made a covenant with David and a kingdom would be forever. The seed would come through this covenant and his descendants and it would last forever. Matthew shows the importance of this genealogy by tracing it in the scripture. Matthew does not tell us Herod's genealogy; only that of Jesus. Herod was an Edomite who bore the title, "King of the Jews."

Matthew then stresses the Messiah, the anointed one, the son of David. The Messiah was born of a woman and became human so he could relate as a human and teach us but he was born the son of God and without sin so that he could save us. He was a king by divine appointment. This is so awesome as to how all of this was told by the prophets and planned for by God from Abraham down through all generations and to us today.

PRAYER: Lord, we just thank you for the scriptures and your word and the freedom that we have to study your word and to learn more and more. Give us the strength and the knowledge of how we can best share your message with those today to make a difference for you. Amen

Marilyn (Jones) Albin 

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January 27, 2010

Scriptures:  1 Samuel 10:6 (New International Version)  The Spirit of the LORD will come upon you in power, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person

1 Samuel 10:9 (New International Version)   As Saul turned to leave Samuel, God changed Saul's heart, and all these signs were fulfilled that day.

Reflection:  During the beginning of a new year, several of us will make some sort of resolution for the following year.  Some of us are very successful with our goals throughout the year, others of us not so much.  I probably fall into the latter category more times than I care to admit.  So this year, instead of trying to come up with yearly goals for improvement in my life, I have resolved to try and break it down into smaller steps each day.  I think that God may have been thinking along these same lines because each day when I am blessed with a new sunrise, I know in my heart He has already wiped the slate clean and has allowed me to "begin again" with te dawn of this new day.

Years ago someone sent me an email with the following poem.  Unfortunately, I do not know who the author is.  The title of the poem is "New Beginnings".

 One of the best things we can do in our lives is this: 

Begin again.

Begin to see yourself as you were when you were the happiest and the strongest you've ever been.

 Begin to remember what worked for you.. and what worked against you, and try to capture the magic again.

 Begin to remember how natural it was when you were a child, to live a lifetime each day.

 Begin to forget the baggage you have carried with you for years.  The problems that don't matter anymore, the tears that have cried themselves away, and the worries that are going to wash away on the shore of tomorrow's NEW BEGINNINGS.

Tomorrow tells us it will be here every new day of our lives; And if we will be wise, we will turn away from the problems of the past and give the future and ourselves a chance to become the best of friends.

 Sometimes all it takes is a wish in the heart to allow yourself.............to begin again.

PRAYER:  Heavenly father, thank you so much for giving us a perfect example of your never-ending love and forgiveness that can be found in the dawn of each new day.  What a wonderful gift you have given each and every one of us to wake up knowing that we can begin our lives again today and make different choices than we did yesterday.  Through the spirit and power of you, and you alone, our hearts can be changed and we can become the person that you intended us to be in the plan you have for each of us.  Amen.

Sue Ann Vice 

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January 26, 2010

TITLE: The New Year, what will it bring?

SCRIPTURE: 1 Thessalonians: 2:16, Now may the Lord of Peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you."

REFLECTION: Jesus Savior Pilot me over life's tempestuous sea. Unknown waves before me roll, hiding rock and treacherous shoal. Chart and compass come from Thee. Jesus Savior Pilot me.

Yes, how true, Unknown waves do roll before us, but Jesus is our chart and compass. He will be our pilot and guide. How we need Jesus to Pilot us this New Year. Unknown days before us will come. We will need Jesus today, tomorrow and EVERY day of this New Year.

In Joshua, 1:9 we read, "do not be afraid nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you where ever you go." From day to day, week to week, year to year, we do not know what will happen, or, where we may be led, but we know WITH WHOM. We will be walking with the Son of God.

It was New Year's Eve. The winter sky was clear and the evening air crisp as little Tommy and his parents walked hand in hand toward the lighted church at the far end of the street. After several moments of thoughtful silence the boy looked up at his mother and said, "Mommy, will tomorrow really be different?" His mother replied, "Why-what do you mean?" He said, "remember Daddy at the supper table said that tomorrow God would give us a brand new year.........will He?" "Yes dear," she assured him.

Tommy thought a while and then he inquired, "well if it's new, will it be different?" Well, what do you and I think? Will the brand new year be any different from the old? Or will it be a rerun of the year just ended? Remember, as we travel this road of life we can say, "Father, into your hands we commend our life. Take it, guide us, pilot us.

As you and I stand at the narrow pass of this New Year lie problems and perplexities, heavy responsibilities and grave decisions. But thank God, each of these moments are in His hands. As the hymn writer puts it: I am trusting thee to guide me, Thou alone shall lead. Every day and hour supplying ALL my need.

God does not lead us year by year Not even day by day, But step by step my path unfolds As He directs my way. Tomorrows plans I do not know: I only know this hour And Him who bids me walk each step Supported by His power. And I am glad that it is so. My Lord who gave us His Son, Holds all y moments in His hands And gives them one by one. Plant kindness and harvest Love.

PRAYER: One life for Christ is all I have. One life for Him so dear. One life for doing all I can with every passing year. For this New Year I thank you God, for the gift of another year. Amen.

Robert Schiebinger. 

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January 25, 2010

TITLE: Showers of Blessing

SCRIPTURE: Ezekiel 34: 26 ...I will send down the showers in their season; they shall be showers of blessing. RSV

REFLECTION: Although we remain in the grip of winter, this passage helped me remember my childhood delight and the thrill of getting absolutely drenched in a warm summer rain. I didn't realize at the time that this joy was indeed a metaphor for the many blessings that God "Showers" upon us. Whether for the fun of it or if you are "caught" in a rain storm, I hope you will think that each rain drop represents a reminder of a blessing from God. I know I will.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank you for the many blessings you shower on us everyday and help us to share those blessings with others. In Jesus name. Amen

Kathy Kuehn

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January 24, 2010

TITLE: Verses for the New Year

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 95:1-7 Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods. In his hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land. Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care. (NIV)

Micah 6:8 - He hath showed thee, O man, what is good: and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God. (KJV)

1Peter 1: 3-4 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade-kept in heaven for you. (NIV)

REFLECTION: Last Sunday Charles Johnson shared an inspiring and uplifting sermon in song during the worship services at Eastridge. Several of the scripture selections cited as the basis for his musical presentations are appropriate for thought and reflection at the beginning of a new year.

The selection from Psalm 95 calls us to worship our Lord and to come before him with thanksgiving for all that he has given the sheep of his pasture. How will you make worship an integral part of your expression of thanksgiving to the Lord this year?

The verse from the prophet Micah tells us that God has provided a model for what is good and has stated what is required of his followers. How will you do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with God this year?

The words from 1Peter are ones of hope and encouragement. The beginning of a new year gives the opportunity to start anew and to rejoice in the gift of eternal life. What will you do this year to nurture your faith and to praise God for the wonderful gift of his Son, Jesus?

PRAYER: Blessed Lord, You have caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning. Grant us so to hear them, read, mark, listen and inwardly digest them, that we may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, forever and ever. Amen. (From The Book of Common Prayer)

Gail Keown 

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January 23, 2010

TITLE: A Prayer for Haiti

SCRIPTURE: II Corinthians 4:8, 9 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.

REFLECTION: The Lord teaches us we are never destroyed. My son sent me this prayer from Texas. How hard it is to see human beings in such a difficult condition as in Haiti right now. If we remember Jesus came to give us eternal life and our life here is for only a little while, then I can believe nothing will destroy all, even death here on earth.

PRAYER: Lord, I just want to say THANK YOU, because this morning I woke up and knew where my children were. Because this morning my home was still standing, because this morning I am not crying because my husband, my child, my brother or sister needs to be buried out from underneath a pile of concrete, because this morning I was able to drink a glass of water, because this morning I was able to turn on the light, because this morning I was able to take a shower, because this morning I was not planning a funeral, but most of all I thank you this morning because I still have life and a voice to cry out for the people of Haiti. Lord I cry out to you, the one that makes the impossible, possible, the one that turns darkness in to light, I cry out that you give those mothers strength, that you give them peace that surpasses all understanding, that you may open the streets so that help can come, that you may provide doctors, nurses, food, water, and all that they need in a blink of an eye. For all those that have lost family members, give them peace, give them hope, give them courage to continue to go on! Protect the children and shield them with your power.

I pray all this in the name of Jesus!!!
To all my friends please continue to forward this so that we can pray together for the people in Haiti .
We here are truly blessed!!!!!

Sandra Hilsabeck

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January 22, 2010

Title: Heavenly Spot Remover

Scripture: Yet there is one ray of hope: his compassion never ends. It is only the Lord's mercies that have kept us from complete destruction. Great is his faithfulness; his loving kindness begins afresh each day. Lamentations 3: 21-23

Reflection: "Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow." Do you remember that old tune? We still hear it sometimes around the holidays.

We had lots and lots of snow last week. When I looked out the window yesterday there were piles of snow everywhere, and I noticed that where the snowplows had come through and made huge piles the children had had a field day making snowmen, snow angels, and even one snow fort -- such fun!! I also noticed where people had been driving there were deep ruts and the snow was dirty where mud had splashed on what little had melted, and sidewalks were slushy and gray. But -- something magical happened overnight -- when I looked out early this morning a beautiful new blanket of pristine white covered everything, hiding all the gray imperfections of yesterday. Everything that had looked ugly was beautiful again!!

It reminds me of how God's mercy and loving kindness falls on us afresh each day. Even though our day has gone badly and we feel we have made some mistakes or done less than our best the God who turned the humiliation and shame of his Son's death on the cross into the gift of salvation for all who believe in Him, can take the ragged places in our daily lives and make them like new again -- every morning. Thank God for that "heavenly spot remover."

Prayer: Dear Lord and Father of Mankind -- thank you once again for the gift of your Son, who died on the cross to take away our sins and give us a fresh start -- every day. Amen

Betty McBride 

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January 21, 2010

Every Inch of God

Exodus 34:6-7, "The LORD passed before [Moses] and proclaimed, 'The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for the thousandth generation, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, yet by no means clearing the guilty, but visiting the iniquity of the parents upon the children and the children's children, to the third and fourth generation.'"

I like Exodus 34:6-7 because it forces us to grapple with every inch of God. It does not allow us to pick and choose the parts of God we like and the parts we don't. Two prominent aspects of God's character emerge in the above verses: 1. God's Grace (verses 6 and 7a), and 2. God's Judgment (verse 7b). In this particular passage the divine scale is weighted toward grace, yet not so much that judgment disappears. Yes, the LORD's mercy, grace, patience, love and faithfulness overshadow the judgment that follows, but they do not fully eclipse it. The beauty and the mystery of God lay in the fact that divine grace and judgment stand together. They live in tension. We can't have one without the other. We need grace to understand judgment and judgment to understand grace.

The well-known hymn, Amazing Grace, does a wonderful job capturing this dialectical relationship between God's grace and judgment. You've heard the line before. "Twas grace that taught my heart to fear and grace my fears relieved." God simultaneously troubles the waters (teaches our hearts to fear) and calms the storm (relieves our fear.) Put another way, the guilt we feel before a just God brings us to our knees while the forgiveness we receive enables us to stand before the Lord in confidence. We are indebted to the writer of Amazing Grace for placing judgment in the context of grace. He teaches us that divine judgment doesn't come from a separate, hidden, and wrathful side of God. Rather, judgment plays an integral role in the redeeming act of God in Jesus Christ, convicting us of our sins and our dire need for a Savior. Through God's judgment and grace, may you experience a holy fear that inspires awe and reverence, and a deep trust that relieves your troubled mind and calms your anxious heart. Praise be to God for working in such awesome and mysterious ways!

Prayer: Almighty and Merciful God, may we grow in the grace and judgment of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen

Pastor J.P. Carlson

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January 20, 2010

Devotion: "Absolutely Relative"

Scripture: "Woe to them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light , and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! . . . Therefore as the fire devoureth the stubble, and the flame consumeth the chaff, so their root shall be as rottenness, and their blossom shall go up as dust: because they have cast away the law of the Lord of hosts, and despised the word of the Holy One of Israel. Isaiah 5:20, 24.

"Pilate saith unto him [Christ], ‘What is truth?'" John 18:38.

Meditation: Perhaps the greatest fallacy of this age is the assertion that truth is relative. The physical sciences tend to deal in absolutes, but when social values and morality are concerned, many of us today believe that there are no absolutes. After all, the times are a-changin' and one can follow his own lights, "do his own thing." --And the modern social god "Tolerance" demands that others respect that-and that's an absolute!

Certainly, some things have no intrinsic moral value-"Shall I take Route 34 to Seward or go by way of the Interstate?" "Should I make my sandwich with cheddar cheese or Limburger?" "For my balloon ascension tomorrow, should I fill the bag with helium or laughing gas?" -- No moral question here, but science can be unforgiving!"

While the field of "ethics" may allow some slippage from generation to generation, in the field of religion, God has provided a clear guideline in questions of morality, beginning with the Ten Commandments. That guide is the Bible, and when passages are beyond our understanding, he has given us the Holy Spirit to make things clear. Through reading of the Bible and an attitude of prayer in all we do, he gives the principles by which we can order our lives and become, in a lifelong process, like our savior, Jesus Christ. Christians can rely upon his Word-absolutely.

Prayer: Our Father, Sometimes our moral compass seems to point in all directions, and we are swept from our course by the winds of social pressure and modern philosophy. Help us to remember that Jesus is "the author and finisher of our faith," and to seek Him and his guidance through faithful reading of your Word and prayer. In His name, Amen

Keith M. Heim

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January 19, 2010

Scripture: Whatever happens, happens. Its destiny is fixed. You can't argue with fate. Ecclesiastes 6:10 (The Message)

Reflection: Is anyone else watching FlashForward on ABC? The show started in September, but I've just recently been catching up with it. I find it very thought-provoking. The premise is that everyone in the world passed out for 137 seconds at the same time, and during that time, each person had a "flash forward." In it, each person envisioned their lives in six months. The drama comes from the various reactions people have to their "future."

One man, a recovering alcoholic, saw himself drinking. His wife saw herself with another man. A man with cancer saw himself with an Asian woman, and he travels to Japan to look for her. An unmarried woman who is not in a relationship saw herself pregnant. Still another man saw himself in the bathroom, reading a newspaper. One of the main characters, and a number of others, saw nothing, leading them to believe that they die sometime during the six-month period.

A recurring topic considered by the characters is whether they can change their future. One man saw in the "future" that he was responsible for a woman's death. He decided to kill himself in order to save her life.

The show has mentioned destiny and fate. It raises questions about what control we have over the future-if any. As a lifelong Presbyterian, I've often heard about free will and predestination. It has always seemed to be a struggle to understand how the two concepts function together. If everything we do is predestined, then what is the need for free will? If we have free will to make decisions, what happens if we choose to take an action that we weren't predestined to take?

I'm not going to try to explain the topics. I looked at the PCUSA website to find information on predestination. It explained that John Calvin believed that "God has ‘predestined' or ‘elected' some people to be saved in Jesus Christ and others not to be. He insisted, nonetheless, that we could be sure only of our own salvation; we were never in a position to judge whether or not another person was saved. . . . For Calvin, the point of the doctrine of predestination was to remind us that God is free and gracious. There is nothing that we can do to earn God's favor. Rather, our salvation comes from God alone. We are able to choose God because God first chose us."

Shows like FlashForward are captivating to see the creators' ideas about concepts like fate. I enjoy them for their entertainment value and for giving me something to think about. It is intriguing to consider the future and what it holds for each of us. It's also important to remember what Calvin said about predestination: God is free and gracious. And we are able to choose God because he first chose us.

Prayer: Dearest Lord, We give thanks for your grace. We are so grateful that you chose us, so that we can now choose you. Please forgive us for thinking that we can control more than we can. The future is in your hands.

Robin Hadfield

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January 18, 2010

John 1:14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

"Enunciate! E-nun-ci-ate your words!" Most choral directors probably hear these words in their sleep! They have the recurring challenge and demands of striving for better diction. The words and message of the piece will not be received if the listeners can't understand the text. Choral groups rehearse sharper consonant sounds, vowel formation, intonation and phrasing to achieve the desired result. It wasn't until recently, that I realized attention to such details could be so important.

I assumed that good diction was primarily for the benefit of the listener, until a dear friend approached me, explaining her hearing impairment. She wanted me to know she wasn't merely staring at me while I participated in a choir anthem. She has always enjoyed choral music and gained inspiration and meaning from the text and emotion of the music. Her hearing impairment occasionally has her struggling to hear the music, let alone, decipher the words. She must rely on the choirs' enunciation of the lyrics, paying close attention to their mouth formations of the words and expression on their faces to receive the message. If the singers perform their job well, she is blessed with a musical experience, is able to participate in the service and receive the message, even though she may never hear a note.

We usually associate music with our aural sensory, so it never occurred to me that my friend enjoys/hears/understands the musical message with her eyes! I didn't even know she was watching! It made me wonder if there are others that are watching me to receive a message. Are there instances in my life where the message I'm trying to convey is clear or does it get lost in translation, with no purpose or passion? I may have said the right words but is the message muddled in good intentions or poor decisions and not expressed clearly with sincere, enunciated actions?

God gave us a clear message when He sent His son to earth! The biblical words and stories were no longer just words on a page or laws to merely abide by.  The Word became flesh! The message is now not only read and heard, it is SEEN! Jesus enunciates His lessons and holy words with perfect compassion and love, but in human form. We personally experience God's love and sacrifice on our behalf as we participate in our Christian journey and receive His message of eternal life, grace and truth, even though we may never truly be able to comprehend His glory!

Father, Thank you for sending your Son to earth! We were in need of a savior! We had heard about Him but we needed to see and believe!  Help us to be clear examples of your Word, in our every thought, word, and deed. Amen (let's make that an, Ay-me-nah!! )

Diane Harris

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January 17, 2010

MUSIC and BIBLE VERSES

Scripture:  Matt 7:7 "Ask and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you".

Psalm 100: 1,2  "Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, ------come before his presence with singing".

Reflection -  Do you have a favorite hymn, poem or Bible verse that has special meaning for you, that gives you comfort?  During my years, I have remembered a "chorus" that was sung in the small church I attended while growing up.  I have the hymnbook, so there's the music  for me to play also.  When I feel my faith at a low ebb, these words and the melody really are uplifting to my soul.  It is simple (no theological discussion needed).

                "Into my heart, into my heart; come into my heart, Lord Jesus.

                 Come in today, come in to stay, come into my heart, Lord Jesus".

                                                -Harry D. Clarke, 1924

Another short hymn (in the same hymnbook) speaks of singing, smiling and praying and is summed up in the last verse:  "Sing and smile and pray; that's the only way.  If you sing and smile and pray, you'll drive the clouds away".

Prayer:  Lord God, thank you for inspiring those who have written hymns, poetry, and for Bible verses that give us  comfort and faith.  Amen.

Ravera Edwards

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January 16, 2010

Standing on the Promises

Scripture: So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. 2 Thessalonians 2:15

Reflection: Last Sunday, January 10th, Randy and I were ushering at the 9:30 service. One of the hymns that morning was "Standing on the Promises." As the congregation sang, and the trio of song leaders led in harmony, the energy and joy of the lyrics were tangible. Hearing it brought back a wave of recollection from my youth. The song calls up my courage and reminds me of what I continue to stand on...what I still need to keep myself on solid footing.

Christ is my King. Christ lives and is praised eternally, I cannot fail if I stand on God's living Word. I am bound to Christ by His love. The Holy Spirit is with me as my defender and comforter.

Pastor Jim continued the service reminding us of our baptisms. He urged us to re-live them and stand on the promise of cleansing and resurrection we received at that holy moment. His message made me think of the other sacred promises I stand on. Though I am shaky in myself, Christ holds me up to stand with Him. Miraculous!

Verse 2
Standing on the promises that cannot fail,
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living Word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God.

Prayer: Jesus, we join in your eternal praise! The strength of your gifts to us is incredible. Please bring your promises back to our hearts when our way is clouded and our feet are slipping. Thank you for love. Amen

Angie Berkebile

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January 15, 2010

Scripture:   I John 4:11, 12 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God: but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

Devotion: A few years ago, a small baby sat in her carrier playing with a sunbeam as it came in the skylight above. She was silent, caught up in her own world. But suddenly, her big sister came running through the room full of excitement about a trip with her beloved Papa. The baby grew silent and watched for a while and suddenly; a noise came from her throat. She was giggling and soon laughing aloud in almost a guffaw. Big sister was really doing nothing unusual, in fact, I doubt that she was even seeing her little sister but the babe was very aware and pleased by the sister's presence and her excited twirls.

In January, of every year, there is a need to make resolutions. Perhaps, we should do as that little babe did. Laugh and enjoy. Love our big sisters, little sisters, big or little brothers, friends, etc. Pay attention and find joy with friends. I am sure, in my heart, that God never intended for us to be alone, or dour just because we are Christians.

Prayer:  Dear God, help us in this New Year to reach out to others and find something to like and then love in all the people we meet and get to know.

Carolyn F. Olsen 

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January 14, 2010

TITLE: Christmas Moments

SCRIPTURE: 1 Chronicles 16:34 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.

REFLECTION: Did you experience "Christmas moments" or "Christ moments" this season? Those moments of thankfulness, or joy, or both, when your cup is overflowing. I have been pondering mine-the beautiful music and message of the Contata; grace at the dinner table by our daughter home from college; Christmas Eve service; talking with our son about Colt McCoy's statement of faith at the end of the Texas/Alabama game. May you experience many "Christ moments" in the New Year.

PRAYER: Dear Father God: From you all blessings flow. We thank you for Christmas moments of joy and gratitude when our hearts are overflowing with your Holy Spirit's peace. May our lights shine for others to see and be used in your service. Amen.

Cathy Schapmann

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January 13, 2010

Title: Do we make a difference?

Scripture: Now therefore there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1

Reflection: I often think of what I have done in my life and many times I just have to marvel at how gracious my God is. He has forgiven me all my sins and he doesn't even remember them. I, on the other hand, do remember. I think, why did I do that, or why did I do it that way, why didn't I do it this way. Could I have done something that would have been better for my children? Was I a good enough example? Then I have to remember that God has been my source and He will continue to lead me in the way my life should go.

Yesterday, my daughter called and said, "Mama, Nikotah made me a calendar at school and I would like him to read something for you." Nikotah got on the phone and said, "Grandma my mom wants me to read Thanksgiving to you." He read, "I'm thankful for my Grandma because she teaches us about God, and takes us for walks and helps me with my homework." (I'll tell you the truth, I had tears in my eyes and a lump in my throat.) I said, "Nikotah which Grandma is that?" He said, "you, grandma." When I didn't realize that I was doing anything it was making an impression. Thank God!

Prayer: Father of grace and forgiveness, thank you for watching over us. Help us to make a difference in the lives around us, even if it is a small difference. May we bring you glory. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Lynn Briley

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January 12, 2010

The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense. Proverbs 27:9, NLT

I read this verse, and it made me think how many times I have turned to friends - whether I was in trouble, sad, happy, lonely, or many other times. It isn't always the same friend, but differs depending on circumstances. Sometimes it is even a four-footed, furry friend! God has given all of us one friend we can turn to at all times - Jesus. It is so comforting to know that there is always one person we can turn to who will understand, and other friends we can turn to for hugs, and to share our joys and sorrows with.

God gave us friends so we can learn to depend on others. He does not intend that we be completely independent, but that we share with others, and with Him. In turn, they will turn to us in their times of need. The world is a better place when we share with our friends.

Dear Lord, thank you so much for the friends you have given us. It was a wonderful gift you gave us so we can learn to depend on others. Thank you for sending them to us so we can be there for them, and turn to them when we need their help. We know that receiving help is so much harder than giving it, please help us to be humble to receive their help, as that will help them out as well. Amen.

Laurie Schlitt

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January 11, 2010

Scripture: Isaiah 9: 2-7 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as men rejoice when dividing the plunder. For as in the day of Midian's defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. Every warrior's boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.

Reflection: During this Advent this year we purchased a Christmas decoration unlike any other I've given. It was a cross in which the whole life of Jesus was depicted - the journey from birth to teaching, healing and preaching, then to the death and the resurrection. Maybe you've seen these?

At first glance I thought it might be set out in clearance - a leftover from Easter. Usually the cross has no place in Christmas decorations - after all, a cross goes along with eggs and Easter lilies and bunnies - that's Easter, and that's a different season entirely, We draw a firm line at the end of Advent when Pentecost arrives and we sigh heavily as we put away the Christmas decorations, and say, "There. That's over."

But with the cross decoration, as with The Bible, the emphasis is on the big picture - the story that doesn't end with a baby. To focus on the birth of Jesus, the gift of "God with us", in separation from the Life & teachings of Jesus, and the Death of Jesus, and the resurrection of our Savior, is to lose sight of the big picture.

The baby was only the beginning, a tiny piece of the longer story. Then He grew into a man who taught us and healed us and modeled for us the life we're to live; then He died for our sins and rose again to prove to us that everything He said was true and he really is omnipotent; then he went back to live in heaven and intercede with God for us every day of our lives.

I'm going to try to keep that image in front of me this year - Where the cross and the manger merge - the whole picture.

Prayer: Dear Lord, sometimes we put a period at the end of Advent, when you meant it to be just the beginning of the story. Help us to go forward from the remembrance of your birth with a renewed conviction to learn more, to give more, and to love more. Amen

Lori Snyder-Sloan

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January 10, 2010

TITLE: Overwhelming Odds

SCRIPTURE: 1 Samuel 17:49-50 Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground. David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him.

REFLECTION: Often times, especially around New Year's, our lives can seem pretty overwhelming. God will provide us with what we need to make it through if we put our trust and faith in Him.

In 2006 a moving titled "Facing the Giants" was released to movie theaters. The film was directed by and starred a gentleman by the name of Alex Kendrick. Alex and his entire supporting cast are members of Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia.

The film tells the story of Grant Taylor, a struggling high school football coach dealing not only with problems at school with his team but also troubles at home with his wife. Faced with these overwhelming problems in his life, Coach Taylor reaches out to God during his time of desperation. What transpires is truly God's work.

The movie was produced with a budget of only $100,000 with a great deal of additional time and resources being donated by the members of Sherwood Baptist Church and by the community of Albany. The film went on to gross over $10 million dollars domestically at the box office making it by percentage one of the most profitable movies ever produced.

The movie soundtrack includes a song by the Christian music group Casting Crowns, "The Voice of Truth":
(lyrics)

Oh what I would do to have
The kind of faith it takes
To climb out of this boat I'm in
Onto the crashing waves

To step out of my comfort zone
Into the realm of the unknown where Jesus is
And He's holding out His hand

But the waves are calling out my name
And they laugh at me
Reminding me of all the times
I've tried before and failed
The waves they keep on telling me
Time and time again, "Boy, you'll never win!"
"You'll never win!"

But the voice of truth tells me a different story
The voice of truth says, "Do not be afraid!"
The voice of truth says, "This is for My glory'
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth

Oh what I would do to have
The kind of strength it takes to stand before a giant
With just a sling and a stone
Surrounded by the sound of a thousand warriors
Shaking in their armor
Wishing they'd have had the strength to stand

But the giant's calling out my name
And he laughs at me
Reminding me of all the times
I've tried before and failed
The giant keeps on telling me
Time and time again. "Boy you'll never win!"
"You'll never win!"

But the stone was just the right size
To put the giant on the ground
And the waves they don't seem so high
From on top of them lookin' down
I will soar on the wings of eagles
When I stop and listen to the sound of Jesus
Singing over me

I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth

Our lives can seem very overwhelming at times. However, God never puts anything in front of us that we cannot deal with. By our faith in God and our continued prayers and trust in Him, God will provide us with the direction and assistance we need to make it through the challenges we face in our lives.

Prayer: Dear Lord, as we begin this new year, please remind us that we can always look to you for assistance. Our lives can seem very overwhelming at times. Please help us to keep our faith in you and to continue to ask for your assistance in all that we do. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

David Pinkerman 

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January 9, 2010

TITLE: Christian Inventory Time

SCRIPTURE: Romans 13:11-12. Besides this, you know what time it is, how it is now the moment for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers; the night is far gone, the day is near. Let us then lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.

REFLECTION: Around this time of year, a business commonly takes an inventory. It is in this way that a business or company can assess what was accomplished in the past year. It also provides the base for accomplishments in the new year.

The above verses in Romans suggests we need to "wake up" and plan ahead for our salavation. It seems it might be a good idea for each of us to take stock of our past year and make plans for a new beginning.

How do we stand today as compared with a year ago? Are we any kinder now than then? Any better tempered? Any easier to get along with in our homes? Any more responsible to the other members of our family? Any more positive in our attitude to others?

Have we taken any forward steps in our relations to our church? Have we learned to support it better with our attendance, our worship, our money, our time, our talents?

Each year that passes is an opportunity to make some progress in the growth of our Christian lives. We can move ahead focused on God.

Are you ready to take your Christian investory and thus direct your own progress in your Christian growth?

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, help us to take inventory of those actions in our lives that help to provide direction in the things that we do that are pleaseing in Your sight. Amen

Lauren Holcombe

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January 8, 2010

GOD IS LOVE

If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever-the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me and I am in you. Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him. John 14:15-21

REFLECTION: What a simple explanation Jesus gave us of the trinity and how it works. At the same time, how hard it is to understand that simple truth. How wonderful is God's plan to live in relationship with us in love. How many times do I forsake His love, trying to push through problems without him? These words tie in with the book I have been reading.

I was so excited to hear Pastor J.P. will be leading a study/discussion of the book, "The Shack". I have read it twice in the past few years and am reading it again to refresh my memory before the class starts. Each time I read it, I understand more what the story is about-God's tremendous love and the beauty of relationship with Him, thru the Son, with the Holy Spirit, to the Father.

While it seemed outlandish the first time I read it, I realized the author was trying to make me release God from "the box" where my human brain wants to force Him. Each time I read it, I hear more what the message is-God loves me and wants relationship with me.

I encourage you to read it and join the class January 20th. I am sure each person present will bring another point of view and a greater opportunity to experience God's love together.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for loving us, though we are sinners. Thank you for wanting relationship with us. Thank you for your words to guide us where you would like us to be. In Jesus' name, Amen

Carolyn Fetterley 

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January 7, 2010

Acts 20:35 And I was a constant example to you in helping the poor; for I remembered the words of the Lord Jesus, "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

THE HONEY ANT

In the nest of the honey ant
Some workers will not leave.
Their behavior, though peculiar
Grants them no reprieve.

They accept the honeydew
From the hunters coming back,
Until they are distended--
A living honey sac.

They live their lives as honey pots,
That others might be fed.
When this strange pot is empty,
The honey ant is dead.

The honey ant is also called the honey-pot ant. Some of the workers although anatomically no different from the rest, act as living storage vessels. They are called "repletes." The honey is a sugary solution obtained by the ants from aphids. When the hunters can no longer gather food, they feed from the "repletes," who truly give us an example of total unselfishness. We ourselves are not required to give to such an extent. But we find that--in a subtler way--the more we give, the more we receive, not materially but mentally and spiritually, Any time we give spontaneously, we have a warm, contented feeling within. We feel good about ourselves and toward others. God gave us the ultimate example when He gave His Son for us, that we might have salvation.

Dear Father in Heaven, I love You and praise You for all You have given me and --most of all--for Jesus Christ, Your Son and my Savior! Help me to give to others without thought of reimbursement but with spontaneity and joy.

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

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January 6, 2010

Title: A Clean Heart for the New Year

Scripture: Create In me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Thy presence, and do not take Thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Thy salvation, and sustain me with a willing spirit. Then I will teach transgressors Thy ways, and sinners will be converted to Thee. Psalm 51: 10-13

Reflection: Those beautiful words from Psalm 51 were written by David long before God sent His beloved Son, Jesus Christ, to die for our sins. Also, in the Old Testament, references to the "Holy Spirit" were related to service, rather than salvation. However, to me, these verses seem very appropriate when used in the context of the beginning of a New Year. As I look back over the year that has just ended I am reminded not only of the successes but of the mistakes and the times I wandered away from God's loving care. Common sense tells me that were times when I had the chance but failed to take a clear stand for God or to share the love and Good news of Jesus Christ with others. I am grateful and I am humbled to know that with God's help I can start the New Year not only with a clean heart but also with a renewed spirit.

What a blessing to be assured that I can unload my sins and failures on God and know that I am forgiven through the death of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. What a gift to know that if we confess our sins to God they will be forgiven and that we shall be washed whiter than snow.

Prayer: Gracious and loving Heavenly Father we thank you for the year just ended and for the New Year that lies before us. We ask that you would create in us clean hearts so that we might do and say things that bring glory and honor to your Holy Name. We thank you for sending Jesus Christ and for the Holy Spirit. Amen

Georgia Lambert

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January 5, 2010

Scripture: James 5: 13 Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise.

Matthew 11:28 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."

Reflection: Does life ever seem to be LESS busy? Every time I think "After this, life will slow down", something else even bigger comes to take its place. Sometimes it's the busy-ness of family, sometimes the busy-ness of my job, sometimes the busy-ness of managing our home, and sometimes it's even the busy-ness of teaching Sunday School, planning new Adult Ed curriculum or participating in a Bible study group. All of these things are so important - so timely they can't be put off until another day or time in life. They are also all part of what I see as God's purpose for my life. But even the things that look like they're God-focused don't automatically result in spending time with God, and thus, they don't refresh and refocus me.

When kids are little (and sometimes when they're grown up too) they get hurt, and they keep it all together until their mom says "Are you okay?" and then they dissolve into tears and fall into their arms.

When someone suffers terrible loss, you often see them holding all the grief in until a friend offers a compassionate shoulder and then the fall apart.

At the end of a long and hectic day at work, there's nothing more refreshing to me than a long, soft hug from my husband where I am able to take a deep breath and relax my body and my mind. I can go on from there.

God wants to be the same for us. He wants to be the place we come (literally or figuratively) when we're weary and heavy laden; when our minds are racing and our hearts are full. Lately I have been reminded of an old song that has so much truth:
It's not in trying, but in trusting;
It's not in running, but in resting;
It's not in hoping, but in praying
That we find the strength of the Lord.

Prayer: (From a prayer Rick Warren included in the Purpose Driven life Daily Devotional of 9/25/09) "Lord, help me to relax in your grace, to realize that you don't expect perfection. You know what I'm made up of, that there is no condemnation in Christ, that you'll never love me any more and never love me any less because of what I do. Help me to focus my mind on the positive things and to read my Bible every day and memorize it and meditate on it. And as I read it, remind me again and again how much you love me. God, help me to quit trying to please everybody. I know it's an impossible task and it only causes anxiety in my life. Instead, let me focus only on doing your will and knowing if it's your plan and purpose for my life. Help me to obey what you've told me to do; it doesn't matter what others think. I relax in your grace. Thank You, Father, that through your grace we can get off the rat race of unresolved guilt and unrealistic expectations--those things that push us to do more. Instead, may we relax and do the things that really count. I pray this in Jesus' name. Amen.

Lori Snyder-Sloan 

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January 4, 2010

Topic: Family First?

Scripture: Mark 3:31-35 Then Jesus' mother and brothers arrived. Standing outside, they sent someone in to call him. A crowd was sitting around him, and they told him, "Your mother and brothers are outside looking for you."

"Who are my mother and my brothers?" he asked. Then he looked at those seated in a circle around him and said, "Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does God's will is my brother and sister and mother."

Reflection: Christmas has just ended and for many of us, it is a time to get together with family. We experienced lots of hugs, laughs and a solidification of these permanent relationships. You can choose your friends, but not your family. That saying may seem a bit disrespectful to family, but most of us wouldn't change our family for the world.

We have to believe that Jesus felt the same way. The fact that Mary and Jesus' brothers made a trip to see him during his ministry is proof that the ties of blood are deep. Upon first reading the scripture about this family visit, it may seem that Jesus is ignoring his mother and brothers when they come to visit him.

Actually, Jesus is taking this opportunity to teach a lesson. He is sharing a new way to become a part of the family of God. Anyone who does the will of God, and that will is to believe in Jesus, is a member of God's family. It wasn't said to slight our biological family ties. It is a reminder that our family relationship in the spirit of God is stronger than physical family. Jesus' family is the forever family of people who love him, obey him, and allow his Holy Spirit to lead, guide, and empower them.

I'm sure that what isn't in the scripture is that immediately after teaching this lesson, Jesus went and gave huge hugs to the family that came to visit him.

Prayer: Loving Father, whether or not our biological family relationships are tenuous or strong, we thank you for sending your son to show us that we can be a member of your family. Empower and encourage us to be more passionate for your will in the future. Amen.

Cindy Thomson

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January 3, 2010

TITLE: What Did It Say?

SCRIPTURE:
And what does the Lord require of you
But do to justice, and to love kindness,
And to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8

REFLECTION: The Year of the Bible has been a wonderful experience. Although I must admit I have a couple of books yet to finish. Before I began this reading adventure I thought in terms of how the two Testaments contrast with one another. Now I see them as one large tapestry with major themes running through both Testaments. You may find different themes but here are a couple of mine.

From the "outstretched arms" of love in Exodus throughout the whole there is God's steadfast love. And in Jesus we see love even unto the least of these.

Throughout I see a demand to worship and obey God. We are challenged to commit our lives to God's purposes, and to not fall prey to silver, gold, and other idols.

And last, I read in so many places that we are to care for one another. Whether it is the widows, or the lame, blind, and poor we are to take care of them. Paul's writing stresses that being a follower of Christ is not a passive thing. To be a follower is to be active in doing God's work.

I'm glad I've had this learning experience.

PRAYER: Lord, thank you for the Year of the Bible. Thank you for the new knowledge it brought and for making the challenge clearer. Lord, only with Your help can we try to give you our total selves, emit love, and care for others. Lord, be with us and guide us. Amen

Lois Coleman 

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January 2, 2010

Title: January A New Beginning

Scripture: The word of God continued to spread and grow. Acts 12:24

Reflection: Just as in Acts 12:24, may we begin and continue to spread God's word to our friends and family.

May we grow in grace and love of God each day.

May we start each day with God by thanking him for this new day and end it by thanking him for this day.

May we grow in our knowledge of the bible this year and learn to deal with each day to the best of our ability.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for this day, this, month, this New Year. Please help us to stay true to you every day. In Jesus Name, Amen.

DeEtte Kohrell

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January 1, 2010

TITLE: Home

SCRIPTURE: And I will provide a place for my people Israel and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed. (2 Samuel 7:10)

Not one of you will enter the land I swore with uplifted hand to make your home, except Caleb son of Jephunneh and Joshua son of Nun. (Numbers 14:30).

He gives the barren woman a home, making her the joyous mother of children. (Psalms 113:9)

REFLECTION: Our Bible presents a wonderful view of home. I love being home. Sometimes I never get enough of it. Recently my grandchildren let me know they love being at our home also. Ten year-old grandson explained to me why his 18 month-old sister always ran from favorite place to favorite place when she entered our home, "It is because she loves being here just like I do." This touched my heart. Then my 21 year-old grand-daughter that attends UNL as a junior called and asked, "Grandma, can my friends and I come stay in your home this weekend?" What joy this brought me.

PRAYER: Lord, please help us make our homes the kind of place people want to be. Help us to treat our family like guests and be hospitable to many. Thank you for the joy of being home. Amen.

Sandra Hilsabeck 

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December 31, 2009

 TITLE: FRAGILE

SCRIPTURE:  "And then I came by, I saw you all miserable and bloody.  Yes, I said, lying there helpless and filthy, "Live!  Grow up like a plant in the field!"   And you did.  You grew up.  You grew tall and matured as a woman full-breasted with flowing hair.  But you were naked and vulnerable, fragile and exposed.     Ezekiel 16: 6   (The Message)

REFLECTION:  On a Saturday in October, I helped Judy make cookies.  My job was to roll the dough and cut out the shape with a cookie cutter.  At first, I rolled the dough too thin and the cookie dough would fall apart before I could get it transferred to the cookie sheet.  When I rolled the dough a little thicker, the cookie dough was much easier to transfer to the cookie sheet.

We, as humans and Christians, are sometimes very fragile from life's hardships.   Just like the cookie dough, which is too thin, we can easily be hurt or swayed to take the wrong path.  When we arm ourselves with God's word, we help to strengthen our faith to stay on the right path.

PRAYER:  Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your son to show us the right path for our salvation.  Amen.

Dee Ann Dilley 

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December 30, 2009

SCRIPTURE: All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. It is God's way of preparing us in every way, fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do. 2 Timothy 4:16-17

REFLECTION: As we say goodbye to 2009 and EYOB (Eastridge Year of the Bible), I reflect on what a meaningful experience reading the entire Bible has been. (I must admit that I am a few days behind, but I will finish). Reading the Bible has given me a chronological, historical and whole view of God's inspired word. It has been interesting reading the different writers who wrote down God's message. The writers came from their own personal, historical, and cultural contexts and styles and different talents.

The scripture is God's inspired word and it is the guide for our faith and life. We need to continue to read scripture and use its teachings to guide us and to do good. If you have not had the opportunity to read the entire Bible, the opportunity awaits you.

PRAYER: Dear God, Thank you for the Bible and your word that gives us our faith in you and guides how we live. Help me to stay in your word. Amen

Susan Taylor 

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December 29, 2009

 Title: The Pillbox Approach to Faith

Scripture: Matthew 25, V. 37-40: Then the righteous will say, "Lord , when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you? Then the king will answer them, "Truly I tell you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these, my brethren, you did it to me."

Reflection: After I had my heart surgery my doctor said. "Now, Dot, I want you to get one of those pillboxes with the seven labeled slots. You know, SMTWTFS. Too many people just keep an assortment of bottles on a shelf. I know you are an organized but busy person. This will work well for you. Just load it on the Lord's Day and then go back to your busy ways". It was great advice and it worked well for me. I just open my little pillbox, take the several pills for that day and embraced the day.

However, following our Faith does not fit the "Pillbox approach". Christ calls us to do His work when we are busy doing other things. I don't need to share my experience because each one has his own experience to recall. The problem is it is so easy to follow the path of "Church on Sunday, Envelope in the Collection plate, Share love in the Welcome Center" then back to our busy life! How many times does Christ appear in painful, unlovely circumstances! This is when the Scripture shouts for our attention. Sometimes "the least brother" Christ calls us to serve is not the identifiable down-trodden! Sometimes this "least brother" Christ speaks of is the well clothed or well educated attractive young person. Or he or she may be the "mover or shaker" in your favorite organization. It may even be "the Chairman of the Board". Yes, sometimes it is even myself! I think of that lovely Old Spiritual; "It's me, it's me, Oh Lord, standing in the need of prayer". These are the times I turn to that beautiful prayer of St. Francis. I will close with that prayer.

"Lord make me an instrument of your peace,
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
To be understood as to understand;
To be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned.
And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life." Amen

Dot French

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December 28, 2009

SCRIPTURE: The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them. Isaiah 11:6

REFLECTION: This Christmas season has been a change for me and one that I can say has also been a delight. Due to the schedules of my girls and their families, we cannot all be together for Christmas this year. However, it worked out that we could for Thanksgiving. So we had Thanksgiving on Thursday and on Friday we all joined in the decorating for Christmas. On Saturday we had our Christmas gift exchange. It was a great week end together and much more relaxed than usual.

Thus I have had December fairly free and I have had more time to share with friends and family. The Christmas crowds and rush have not bothered me. I have especially enjoyed the time with my 3 year old (almost 4) granddaughter. We have had time for the Christmas story, songs, and lots of cookie baking. As I enjoy this time, I wish all Christians could enfold the Christian life with the enthusiasm, excitement, fun, joy, and love that these little ones do. In baking, we have to see, feel, taste, smell, all the ingredients as we use them, as well as have it all over us and the kitchen!! Also, we have a thousand questions of "why" as we are involved. Then there is the difference between the ingredients and how each different and everyone of them are needed to come out with the delicious cookies.

During this time the above scripture has come to my mind often. It has been a wonderful time of learning and then remembering the Christ Child as a baby and the life and hope that He brought to us so long ago and still is with us through the ages. As we turn our hearts and eyes towards a New Year may we let the child lead us and let us embrace each new day as a special gift from God to be used for Him with the enthusiasm, excitement, joy, hope, and love that a child has. This would be a wonderful way to start the New Year and then to carry it into each day of the year. This is my prayer for each of you.

PRAYER: Lord, thank you for your word and how it come to us in so many unexpected ways. Let us embrace our life for you as a child would and learn from them. Amen

Marilyn (Jones) Albin

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December 27, 2009

Amazing grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind, but now I see
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed 

Chorus:

My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy reigns
Unending love, Amazing grace

Reflection: As I sit here and listen to the various weather reports coming in about how much snow we are actually going to receive in this "winter" snow, as Pastor Jim calls it, I realize that snow and our relationship with God is actually quite similar. I had multiple opportunities to think about snow as it applies to life for many hours a couple of weeks ago while I was out shoveling snow. I decided then and there that those who want to know exactly where they are going in life and know exactly where they have been, need to look no farther. When one is out scooping snow, you know exactly where you are going and can see exactly where you have been.

I also realized that at times, due to my own weakness and strength that I had to actually scoop the snow in layers---removing a little at a time. I think this is very similar to how faith is. The first level of our faith is relatively light and pretty easy to break through, especially after we just become Christians. The faith of a child is much like this....there is so much excitement about God and Jesus and they want to soak up all that they can. This is the layer that you get to do fun stuff with like build snowmen and really cool snow forts.

The next level of our faith is sometimes sandwiched in between the new excitement we have when we first believe, and the deep, peaceful meaning within that most of us achieve later in life or as death draws near. Sometimes, this level just sits there until something or someone encourages it to be lifted or moved away. This is not necessarily a bad thing because it is content to support the "top layer" and the "bottom layer" and will be there until you decide to do something about it. The poem, Footprints, comes to mind when I think about this layer. It is during these times in our lives when we are stretched so thin and life gets in the way of being able to devote much time to our spiritual education and personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Fortunately, we have a loving Father who will patiently sit and wait for us to turn back to Him yet in the meantime if something should happen and we call on Him, he is the first in line to help us and to love us. This reminds me of those neighbors who will come over with their shovels and snow blowers to help you out instead of watching you from inside their cozy, warm houses.

Finally, there is only that last layer of snow that needs to be removed. I must warn you that this is usually the toughest layer that sometimes needs to be chipped away at a little at a time, especially if there were other elements such as rain, wind, and cooler temperatures that turned it into sleet or ice before it was covered with that innocent, pearly white looking snow. That is certainly indicative of things being not as they appear. Isn't that similar to our own faith? Don't we sometimes have to get rid of all the other junk a little at a time and realize that it is not by anything we have done or said that we are saved but by the grace of God alone? For some, it takes a whole lifetime to realize this. Sadly, others never do. For some, the reward is in the process, for others, it is in the realization. I do not think that it is a coincidence that this is the last verse of Amazing Grace.

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow
The sun forbear to shine
But God, Who called me here below
Will be forever mine
Will be forever mine
You are forever mine

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you so much for giving me yet another opportunity to see your amazing work through nature. While I, and others, are shoveling out from this next snow storm, instead of grumbling and having negative thoughts, remind me that this is a time when I will have a few quiet moments to examine my own walk of faith. Allow me to clearly see the layers that need to be removed quickly and help me to chip away, even if it is a little bit at a time, these earthly barriers that keep me from You. Help me to remember that it truly is only through You that I will be able to see where I am going because it doesn't even matter where I have been. Amen.

Sue Ann Vice

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December 26, 2009

TITLE: Journey to the Manger.

SCRIPTURE: Luke 2:10-12. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you, He is Christ the Lord. This shall be a sign unto you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manager.

REFLECTION: At Christmas time. I am sure all of us have addressed Christmas cards, letters of Christmas wishes, haven't we? Once a little girl, at Christmas wrote a letter to Jesus. The post office returned it to her for want of a better address. Many people around us do not know the address of Jesus Christ. The Wise men of old came seeking; "where is He who has been born King of the Jews?" We know, the home address of Jesus is HEAVEN.

At Christmas we remember how Jesus took a new address. He left heaven, became flesh and moved to earth, entering our world. He took up residence here to make possible our taking up residence in Heaven. The Bible tells us that Jesus was born in a stable. WOW, how many people were ever born in a stable? I always have thought it seemed like such an unsuitable place for the birth of our Lord.

In a few days we shall observe Christmas, the anniversary of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Are we looking forward to Christ­mas? Certainly we are, and why shouldn't we? Children are, and why? Christmas means toys, trains, dolls and dishes. Adults too look forward to Christmas. There are gifts to give and gifts to receive. Festival days for family gatherings. But thank God there are better reasons to look forward to Christmas. Isn't it a time when we remember the greatest Giver and the greatest Gift? God so loved the world that He gave His only-begotten Son. Jesus Christ is God's Gift to ALL OF US. A gift to be received and accepted.

It was Christmas Eve in Austria, in 1818. Joseph Mohr, the vicar of the church, had written a new song for the Christmas Eve service and the organist Franz Gruber had set it to music. But the organ in the village church broke down. So Gruber grabbed a guitar and accompanied Mohr in the first-ever rendition of "Silent Night, Holy Night." The story doesn't end there. When a man came to fix the organ, Gruber tested it by playing the new song. The repairman liked the song so much that he took a copy of it back to his village. There four daughters of the village glovemaker learned the song and began singing it in concerts all over the region. Because of that faulty organ, this new Christmas song blessed people all over Austria and eventually the world.

In closing, please allow me to say.........let us remember that our faith is not of this world but is in Jesus Christ. If this is so we are powerful people. Jesus is walking with us, leading us, guiding us to heaven with the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus makes the wondrous Christmas Story an abiding reassurance that the Christ child's birth was the beautiful beginning of God's plan for peace on earth.

PRAYER: And now may the Peace of Christmas enfold you. May the cheer of Christmas comfort you. And may the Spirit of Christmas abide with you always. Alleluia. Amen.

Robert Schiebinger.

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December 25, 2009

TITLE: Happy Birthday Jesus

SCRIPTURE: LUKE 2:11 For to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. RSV

REFLECTION: Today we gather with family and friends to share gifts, food and fellowship in celebration of the birth of our Savior. As we enjoy this "Birthday Party" may we remember all those who are away from family, have limited opportunities to celebrate, who are hungry or in fear. May we keep the Christmas spirit of giving through out the new year.

Merry Christmas

PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for coming to Earth and being with us still, our Immanuel. Amen

Kathy Kuehn

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December 24, 2009

UNTO US A CHILD IS BORN

Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a child is born!
Unto us a son is given!
And his name shall be called,
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace

What do these beautiful words from Isaiah bring to your mind??....the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's "Messiah"? The birth of the Christ child in the stable amongst the animals, because there was "no room for them in the inn"? Or, is it the words from Luke in the New Testament?

But think of it---these words were written in the sixth century, B. C. (Six hundred years before Christ!!) They predict birth of the savior that the Jews had been waiting for for centuries. Sadly, the Jews refused to accept the kind of a king that Jesus was.

But,the message is so, so new, yet timeless. We can honor the birth of the Savior this Christmas. Let's open our hearts to the true spirit of Christmas, Let's forgive old grudges, and welcome a lost sheep back into the fold. Let's use this season as a catalyst to heal old wounds, make amends, forget about who was right or wrong, and grant forgiveness. Like the family at the stable in Bethlehem, let's welcome everyone with grace and unconditional love. Let us celebrate our relationships, for they are truly the brightest ornaments on our tree of life.

Prayer: Dear Lord, we thank you so very much for the immeasurable gift of your son, Jesus Christ....born humbly in a stable in Bethlehem. We thank you for your love and presence in our lives. Forgive us for our neglect; and help us to remember to talk to you every day. May we truly love our neighbors as ourselves. Amen

Gerry Draney

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December 23, 2009 

A UNIQUE CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

SCRIPTURE: Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them. (Deuteronomy 4:9)

Daniel interpreting Nebuchadnezzar's dream: "In all the time of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed, nor will it be left to another people. It will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an end, but it will itself endure forever." (Daniel 2:44)

We can be very thankful we have Kim Shirk to write unique Christmas plays for our children at Eastridge. She fulfills one of the promises we make at each baby's baptism. As a child I remember the manger scene plays. These portray the baby God sent to save our sins telling the meaning of Christmas. However, there is more to teach, and the story is written all over the Bible and in Kim's plays.

At Christmas we write a simple play and have the grandchildren be the actors. The children come from other cities, and have other family to visit; we get about an hour to rehearse. We are sometimes disappointed all points of the play are not made clear. However, the parents and other relatives always gather in front of the curtain and stage with painted backdrops Bryce has set up. They watch, laugh and enjoy.

Each year we think it might be the last year as the children are growing older, but the little ones look forward to it and last year the older ones said it was the best play ever.
I know they will remember Daniel interpreting the king's dream telling of Jesus's kingdom and the king falling prostrate at this news. Daniel's story was told.

PRAYER: Please help us to teach our children and their children. Amen.

Sandra Hilsabeck 

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December 22, 2009

The Lord is My Shepherd

"The Lord is my shepherd. I shall lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul..." Psalm 23: 1-3 (NIV)

Shepherds play a major role in the Bible. When our Savior, Jesus Christ was born, shepherds were watching their flocks in the fields. They went to Bethlehem to see this baby who had been born. Just as shepherds protected their flocks, so does Jesus protect His flocks, including you and me. Whatever the situation may be, Jesus is always watching over us, protecting us, guiding us, and caring for us. In the small happenings of life, whether it be driving across town, completing our work for the day, caring for our families, or helping others, Jesus is there with us, caring for us just as a shepherd would care for his flocks.

Do you take time from your busy schedule to consider all the protections that Jesus, our shepherd, provides for you each and every day? There are many times that I am so preoccupied with the work that I am doing or the activities of the day, that I don't stop to think how much my shepherd cares for me and shows that care by protecting me, guiding me, loving me, and being always there as my Savior. In this wonderful season of Advent, let us slow down and take the time to consider and note all the many, many times that Jesus has truly been our shepherd, protecting us from any dangers that lie ahead. We know that Jesus loves each of us unconditionally, cares for us in the most considerate manner, and guides us throughout our life's activities.

Our Heavenly Father, you are indeed our shepherd throughout every day of our lives. You guide us, hold us, care for us, and protect us. Thank you for being that wonderful shepherd to each of us. Please always be our shepherd, guiding our actions and words in all that we do and say. In Your name we pray. Amen

Linda Douglas

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December 21, 2009

TITLE: The How and The Who

SCRIPTURE: John 1:29, "The next day he [John the Baptist] saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, ‘Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!"

REFLECTION:  John utters the familiar words, "Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" But how was this line delivered? How does the author of John's Gospel want us to read it? My first inclination is to think it was a bold proclamation, but the text isn't clear. The Greek doesn't include an exclamation point nor does it indicate that John is projecting his voice. The line is just there. John says it and we are left to interpret how it was said.
Thinking of possible ways to deliver this line is kind of fun. When you read it in the King James Version it almost has a Shakespearean flavor. "The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." But what if John's words aren't meant to come across well-rehearsed? I can imagine John, overcome by the glory of the One who is coming toward him proclaiming in whispered awe, "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." Or maybe I'm making too much of it. As I said, the passage doesn't indicate a particular emotion or inflection. John may have simply stated in a flat and matter of fact way, "There, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world."
At the end of the day asking how the line was delivered, although interesting, isn't all that important. In fact, you can get so caught up in the "how" and completely miss "Who" John is talking about! During the Advent season there are a lot of activities that claim to focus on the "Who" of Christmas. Pageants, nativity scenes, concerts, service projects, worship services, cantatas, etc. Yet, more often than not, the "who" (the message) gets pushed off to the side and the "how" (the activity or event) takes center stage. When this happens wonderful gifts like music become a performance for self-glorification rather than a way to glorify God. Serving others becomes a quaint Christmas tradition instead of a way of life. Gift exchanges become an annual duty and cease to be free acts of love.
No matter how you think John announces Jesus' coming, with a British accent or a reverent whisper, remember to heed his message. Don't get caught up in all the crazy Christmas consumerism. Get caught up in God! Don't get bogged down in the "how." Be transformed by the "Who." "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world."

PRAYER: Lamb of God, wipe away the sin that separates us from You. Draw us out of the Christmas clamor and into Your life-giving presence. Amen.

JP Carlson

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December 20, 2009

TITLE:  "A Bleak Prospect, Indeed"

SCRIPTURE: "For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. - James 2:10.

"As it is written, there is none righteous, no, not one.." --Romans 3:10.

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

MEDITATION: Recently, I came across the title of a book, "What if Jesus Had Never Been Born?" A sobering thought. Before he came to earth, believers were under Judaic law-not only the Ten Commandments, but a long list of other commands and restrictions that were impossible to keep. Since God cannot countenance sin of any kind, to have violated the law in one instance was to have violated all of the law. A bleak and frightening prospect!

God is a god of love and grace, and he swept all of those "legalisms" away when he sent his on Son, sinless and pure like the sacrificial lamb of the Old Testament, to earth to atone, once and for all, for all of our sins. Because of his death on the cross, we, if we accept Christ as our Savior, can stand before the judgment, sinless, covered with Christ's righteousness. And his grace is free-What a Christmas present!

PRAYER: Our Father, At the festive season of Christmas- shopping, gift wrapping and giving, family reunions-may we pause to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and thank you for the greatest present we could possibly receive, the gift of eternal life through the birth and death of your Son, Jesus Christ. In His name, Amen

Keith M. Heim  

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December 19, 2009

Scripture: Have you taken leave of your senses? Something crazy has happened, for it's obvious that you no longer have the crucified Jesus in clear focus in your lives. Galatians 3:1 (The Message)

Reflection: Technology is a huge part of our lives. Trying to learn how to operate computers, cell phones, digital cameras, and IPods can be a challenge. One helpful feature some of these items have is an indicator of the battery power remaining. It helps us know when the battery needs to be recharged or replaced.

During the Christmas season, most of us are busy shopping, wrapping, and baking, in addition to the everyday tasks we have the rest of the year. We get caught up in trying to fit everything in and put added stress on ourselves. Wouldn't it be nice if we had a built-in indicator of when our battery power was running low?

Actually, we do-it's Jesus. If we make Him the clear focus in our lives, He will help us recognize when we're trying to do too much. We need to remember that the celebration is meant to be a time to reflect on His birth, rather than a time to see how many gifts we can buy or cookies we can bake. If our relationship with Jesus is foremost in our lives, we can be recharged by working on our relationship with Him, in worship, Bible study, or meditation.

Prayer: Dear Lord, Please help us to remember that Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of your son, Jesus Christ. We know that if we have him at the center of our lives, there's no need for a battery power indicator, for we can be refreshed and recharged through Him.

Robin Hadfield 

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December 18, 2009

From Bethlehem to Lincoln, With Love

Isaiah 9:6 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."

When a gift is given it is for the receiver to keep and do with what they will. Every Christmas we are more aware of the gift that God gave us long ago and we bring it out and honor it with Carols, decorated trees, and advent services.

Directly to us, a son is given. Let's not hide the Gift away or forget about it after the holidays are over. It is my prayer that I keep this joyous feeling, which had its origin that blessed day in Bethlehem when God saw fit to save each believer's life by giving them a personal savior. It is a gift of love and it comes straight to us, from Bethlehem to Lincoln, and then into our hearts.

Let's remember then, that this gift is our living Lord and not pack it away with the Christmas decorations. O the joy, to have Him with us all year round, at all times of our lives!

Prayer: The greatest gift of all, oh God, is your Son, who came in the form of a tiny baby. Let us sing, "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" all year long. Amen

Mary Lienemann 

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December 17, 2009

TITLE: Peace - Simba and Pumbaa?

SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 11:6, "The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them."

REFLECTION: One hot day in the middle of summer a lion and boar went to a spring to drink. "Step aside," the boar said, "I was here first."

"I showed you where to find the spring," the lion replied angrily. "I will be the first to drink."

Quickly the disagreement escalated from a verbal confrontation and they quickly began to attack each other with great ferocity. A few minutes later, stopping to catch their breath, they both saw some vultures seated on a rock above, waiting for one of them to be killed. The sight so sobered them that they quickly made peace saying, "If we continue to fight the only winner will be the vultures."

It's easy to become angry in an angry and fallen world. Arguments transpire quickly if we are not vigilant of our tongue and actions. Yet our God is a God of peace. We forget that he wills us to love one another. Advent is a reminder of hope, peace, joy, and love. As Advent draws near, let's remember that God loves us and will give peace to his children. Jesus was the perfect example and we should always strive to live up to his standards.

PRAYER: Dear God, thank you so much for sending Jesus to our fallen world to save us. Please help us to remember that you are a God of peace and help us to do what Jesus would do. Lord, help us to create peace in this world. Amen.

Benjamin Crelin 

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December 16, 2009

The Righteous Branch

Scripture: "The days are coming," declares the Lord. "when I will raise up to David a righteous branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land. In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called: The Lord Our Righteousness." Jeremiah 23:5-6
(Jeremiah records this messianic passage a second time in chapter 33:15-16)

Meditation: In God's covenant with Israel, He chooses a king for them who is promised to reign forever through his heir. 2 Samuel 8:15 records that David "did what was just and right for all his people." To find a good leader who does what is right based on justice, not on ambition or outward influences is rare and a tremendous blessing to his or her kingdom. To care for all people seems impossible.

In these words of Jeremiah, David is the root to God's gift. Because David ruled wisely, doing what was just and right, his kingship sprouted the vine we know as Jesus, the Christ. David was flawed as a part of humanity, but his heart carried redemption through its pulse. Jesus is the glorification of that redemption. He personifies the best qualities of a ruler. His people will have salvation and safety; they will have an absence of fear due to the blessings of His protection and His provision. His deliverance is both spiritual and physical.

Jesus is gifted with the Kingship of the tribe of Judah and the priesthood of the tribe of Levi. As priest and king, Jesus surpasses even the most cherished king in history-David. Ezekiel 37:24-27 describes David as being Israel's "prince forever" because they will have an eternal king who will "put his sanctuary among them forever." God will live with and give shelter to His people forever.

Prayer: Dear Lord, please help us to grasp the extent of your rule and the flawless, full gifts of your leadership. These gifts are already there for us; they came the moment you were born into this world and then into our hearts. Kindle that birth in us and be our sanctuary forever. Amen

Angie Berkebile

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December 15, 2009

John 1:14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the father, full of grace and truth.

Devotion: There is a smile on my face as I begin writing this Christmas devotional. Outside, the grass is green, the leaves have not fallen yet and we are waiting for our first frost. In the stores, the Christmas decorations are beginning to fight a winning battle with the masks of Halloween. Christmas is still a few months away. That is, the celebration of Christmas. But it is not hard to think of Christmas.

For Christmas is not just a season but also a feeling, the same feeling that you get when a small child grins at you with love. The heartfelt feeling that comes over you when you suddenly know that you could have been hit by that runaway car but the Lord intervened. The feeling that you have when a young girl opens her mouth and sings loud and clear the joy of Christian hood. The little shiver of anticipation that is felt when you await the beginning of a dance recital. The prayer of thanks when tests come back negative. Yes, Christmas is more than a season. It is a grateful feeling of being alive, a wonderful giving of thanks for the gift of Jesus Christ. It is a feeling of joy and love for the baby in the manger and a need for prayer in everyday life.

In our religious life, Advent is the time of Christmas, but it is hoped that there can be time in our lives for Christmas every day. Just as the cross looms on the horizon, the baby comes to us once again with love from God himself.

Prayer: Dear Lord thanks, for the wonderful gift of your son. Help us to keep the Christmas spirit alive in our lives today and everyday. Amen

Carolyn F. Olsen

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December 14, 2009

Grace for the Holidays

John 1: 16‐17 From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

I gave myself a gift one Christmas. It was a small stuffed pillow that looked antiqued and had embroidery stitches spelling out the word "race."My daughter Amelia' middle name is Grace. I think it is a beautiful name. It congers up beautiful memories of a woman with kind eyes and long thin arms just waiting to wrap you up in a loving hug. My grandmother' name was Grace. It was a gift I gave my daughter Amelia, to have Grace as her middle name. My grandmother reminds me of limitless love and kindness. She could save the day with a small glass of grape

juice and a chocolate covered graham cracker cookie. She was the perfect example of God' grace here on earth. She did the work and we received the gift.

It seems selfish to get oneself a gift at Christmas. I saw the little pillow and I was taken instantly to a loving place in my past. I like those little reminders of loved ones that have made my life special in some way. Grandma Grace loved unconditionally. As an adult, when I learned about the grace of our Lord, that He had done the work, yet I would receive the gift of His grace, I understood an even deeper meaning of unconditional love. That little pillow reminds me of two people, Grandma Grace and Jesus Christ.

I would like to invite everyone to give them selves a gift this year. God' grace is a present available to all. Believe. It is a gift that bears kind eyes that see our souls and love us anyway. It bears long arms waiting to hold us. Communion has always been a two‐fold celebration for me. I am reminded of my grandmother as she poured the rich grape juice as a loving snack, and of my Savior, who poured out His very life and provided the basis of a commitment of love with no end. Grace is yours! God' love is yours each and every morning. Make everyday Christmas. Give yourself that gift. God' grace is enough!

Heavenly Father, You are exactly what we need this Christmas! We may "ant"for other things, but Your grace is enough. Help us to share the good news of this gift that never ends. Help us to model kind eyes and long arms ready to reach out. Give yourself a gift this Christmas. Give yourself Christ' grace. Amen

Kathy Rangel

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December 13, 2009

I'll Follow You Lord

 Psalm 71:5-6  For you have been my hope, Oh Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth. From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother's womb. I will ever praise you.

The fondest memories of my childhood are celebrating my birthday with my sister who was born after me.  Our birthdays are just one day apart.  We'd always celebrate our birthdays together; sometimes we make the same wish; and we even like the same type of cake, German chocolate cake.  We've always been so much alike since our youth.  Even though we're miles apart today, we still celebrate our birthdays via telephone 

Have you ever been asked the question, "If you could live your life all over again what would you do differently?" I've always answered, "nothing, " because I really don't want to change anything in my past experiences. My family, friends, and the people that I've met have all been inspirational to my development. Even more so, My Sovereign Lord, has been with me every step of the way through the good and the bad. So to live my life all over again would be to displease God because of something that I want to do differently than what God has done for me. Even if I could live my life all over again a thousand times differently, I know that I could never do better than God.

Prayer: Oh Gracious Lord, lead me on to do the things that I must do in my lifetime. From birth I have always relied on you, you brought me from my mother's womb. I'll always give praise to you. Amen. 

Ki-Raka Atwater

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December 12, 2009

Christmas - A time for giving?

And I saw that all labor and all achievement spring from man's envy of his neighbor. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind. Ecclesiastes 4:4

Christmas is quickly approaching. There are so many things yet to do. We need to bake cookies, buy and wrap presents, decorate trees, and so many other things.

This verse made me wonder. The preparations many of us make, myself included, are they just chasing after the wind? Are they meaningless? Are they tradition? Or are we trying to do better than our neighbors? What is the meaning of our traditions?

Perhaps, we should take a little more time this season and concentrate on the Christ in Christmas. What is it that we can give that will truly make a difference in the lives of others? Perhaps we can find things to give that will make a real difference in someone's life, and not just out of envy of our neighbors.

Dear Lord, help us to find the true meaning of Christmas. Help us to understand what is truly important in this season. Amen.

Laurie Schlitt 

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December 11, 2009

Title: Loyalty - it takes preparation

Scripture: 1 Chronicles 29:17-18 I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity. All these things have I given willingly and with honest intent. And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you. O Lord, God of our fathers Abraham, Isaac and Israel, keep this desire in the hearts of your people forever, and keep their hearts loyal to you.

Luke 16:10 "Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much; and whoever is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much."

Reflection: When Mitchell first made the transition from a Webelo to a Boy Scout, I remember helping him to memorize the Scout Law: A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly,
courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. Many of these fine characteristics are also ones the traits that we read are pleasing to God. In 1 Chronicles we read particularly of how important loyalty is. And why shouldn't God expect that from us? After all, God is the ultimate example of loyalty - through all the generations, through our good and bad behavior.

Beth Moore tells us the original Hebrew definition of Loyalty is "to be firm, be established, be steadfast, be faithful, sure, certain; to be ready, be prepared... " , going on to note that "Loyal is not something we suddenly are at the flash-moment of testing. It's something we already were that surfaces in the test." In other words, becoming firm in our loyalty to the Lord requires years of preparation. It's something that refines itself as we study, pray, do the work of the Kingdom, and look for the presence of God in our life. If there's preparation to be made, what better time to start than during Advent - the season of preparation.

Prayer: Dear Lord, as you prepare our hearts for the celebration of the arrival of your Son Jesus, may this also be the start of our next phase of preparation us for the times ahead when our loyalty to you will be tested. When the time comes, may you find us firm in our loyalty. May you be pleased with our integrity. Amen

Lori Snyder-Sloan 

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December 10, 2009

 Title: "Of the Father's Love Begotten"

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten son.

Reflection: One of my favorite hymns is "Of the Father's Love Begotten". The words were originally a poem written in Latin by Aurelius Pruditius in the 5th Century and later was translated to English and set to music using a hauntingly beautiful plainsong from the 13th Century. Singing this hymn in my hometown church each Christmas as I was growing up, gave me a sense of awe and wonder. The free flow of the melody, with its stepwise progression up and down, gives the feeling of the Holy Spirit moving gently among God's people and the text reminds us of God's presence in all times and in all places, from the beginning of the world to eternal victory.

Of the Father's love begotten, ere the worlds began to be,
He is Alpha and Omega, He the Source, the Ending He.
Of the things that are, that have been and that future years shall see,
Evermore and evermore.

Oh, that birth forever blessed, when the Virgin, full of grace,
By the Holy Ghost conceiving, bare the Savior of our race,
And the Babe, the world's Redeemer, first revealed His sacred face,
Evermore and evermore.

O ye heights of heaven, adore Him; angel hosts, His praises sing;
Powers, dominions, bow before Him, and extol our God and King.
Let no tongue on earth be silent, every voice in concert ring,
Evermore and evermore.

Christ, to Thee, with God the Father, and, O Holy Ghost, to Thee
Hymn and chant and high thanksgiving and unending praises be,
Honor, glory, and dominion, and eternal victory,
Evermore and evermore.

Prayer: Dear Lord: We thank you for the gift of music and for the way You inspire words and musical notes in such a special way as to give us a sense of your presence ..... evermore and evermore. Amen

Patty Niemann 

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December 9, 2009

Isaiah 40

Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the LORD's hand double for all her sins. Isaiah 40:1-2

This passage of scripture has been one of my favorites for as long as I can remember. I have quoted it from the King James Version, because that is the way I first learned it. As you read the book of Isaiah for EYOB you might have noticed the sudden shift in tone and format at the beginning of chapter 40. Biblical scholars believe that this section of the book was written some two centuries after the previous 39 chapters. In the intervening years the catastrophe that the prophet Isaiah had warned of had come to pass. But now the people who suffered through exile in Babylon have finally been permitted to return to the land that God had promised them.

In addition, I have quoted the King James Version of this passage because it is the opening passage of Handel's Messiah, which uses much of this chapter of Isaiah for its text. During Advent we sense a whole new meaning to these ancient words :

And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.

It isn't just the victims of warfare among ancient empires that the LORD redeems, God has acted throughout history in human affairs, sometimes admonishing and chastising, and other times nurturing and healing.

He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.

God acted in a profound way two thousand years ago, but the LORD continues God's mighty acts in our everyday lives today. During Advent we recognize that truly, "Joy to the world: The LORD is come!" for all of us and for all times.

Prayer: O God of Heaven and Earth: Prepare our hearts so that we can witness again your power in our lives.

Bill Wehrbein 

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December 8, 2009

PRAISE HIM

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. Isaiah 7:14

"Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people."And again, "Praise the lord, all you Gentiles,and sing praises to him, all you peoples." And again, Isaiah says,"The root of Jesse will spring up, one who will arise to rule over the nations;the Gentiles will hope in Him." May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:10-13

REFLECTION: The first chapter of Matthew shows the geneology from Abraham, through Jesse, to Joseph, the husband of Mary of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. In Romans, Paul reminds us of the prophesy from Isaiah that the Christ was to come from the the seed of Jesse. Chapter 9 of Isaiah foretells that the child to be born would also save the people walking in darkness,those living in the land of the shadow of death. We would see the great light. The child would be born of a virgin and he would be called. " Wonderful
Counselor, Might God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

While I have lagged far behind the readings for the EYOB, I love the way the suggested readings tie the Old Testement together with the New. I used to believe the Old Testement was more a history book of the Jewish people and had little to do with me. I know now that it is all God's word and he will use all of it to speak to my heart and guide me if I read it.

During this advent season, I will renew my committment to continue the study of God's holy word. I will praise and thank Him for the Holy Spirit and the most precious gift of His son, Jesus Christ.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for your holy word, giving us the good news of salvation for all who would believe and accept Christ as our Savior. Help us to follow your teachings in such a way that those around us will see your light in us and be drawn to you also. Thank you for the hope of eternity to be spent with you in total love. In Jesus' name, Amen

Carolyn Fetterley

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December 7, 2009

Be still and prepare to worship.

Psalm 46:10 "Be silent, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world."

We all know those kids (both young and old) that can't seem to sit still for any length of time. We also see that either those kids seem to come out of the woodwork this time of year, or something about the time of year makes even the most mild mannered act like they are the most important person in the world, and nothing is happening fast enough.

We as adults seem to take this time of year and try to cram as much as we can into the short holiday season. We need to stop and remember the real reason for the holidays, the birth of Jesus. We need to devote much more attention to that this holiday season. We need to be thankful for the things that God has provided us with already, not focusing on those things we do not have. We need to calm down and feel the stillness on God in our lives.

Prayer: God, please help us learn to slow down this season and concentrate on what is really important, you. Please help us remember that material desires, and running at 10,000 miles per hour are not what you are calling us to concentrate on, but you are. Please watch over us and help us through this busy season and focus on you the whole time. Amen.

Brian Moock

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December 6, 2009

Prepare the way for the Lord

In those days, John the Baptist came preaching in the Desert of Judea and saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: "A voice of one calling in the desert,' Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.'" Matthew 3:1-3

Advent is a time to prepare hearts and homes for the celebration of Christ's birth. It is easy for me to become so busy with home preparations at this time of year-baking, decorating for the holidays, etc., that the heart preparations take a back seat. An Advent Devotion, special music and programs at church help get the heart preparations on track.

John the Baptist must have known from his earliest childhood that his calling was to prepare people to receive their Messiah. John humbly accepted his role as just a "voice" pointing others to Jesus, not trying to be the center of attention himself. While many in that day looked for a Messiah who would come in the role of conquering king, John's advance work pointed to the Savior. John preached of people's need for repentance and forgiveness of sins-of hearts, not palaces, prepared for the Lord. When Jesus did make his appearance as John was baptizing, John introduced him as "the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world" -the ultimate sacrifice.

Prayer: "Joy to the world! the Lord is come; let earth receive her King; let every heart prepare him room, and heaven and nature sing." Lord, I pray that my heart may be prepared to receive You now and forever. Amen.

Judy Heaston 

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.December 5, 2009

FINDING JOY

PSALMS 30: 4-5 - Oh sing to him you saints of his; give thanks to his holy name. His anger lasts a moment; his favor lasts for life! Weeping may go on all night, but in the morning there is joy. (TLB)

REFLECTION: One chair stood empty in the waiting area. As I sat in it, I wondered how long I would have to wait to receive my flu shot. Several more people came in and stood in line. I noticed that the woman at the end of the line used a cane and there was a grimace of pain on her face. I approached her and told her I'd like to trade places with her. "Are you sure?" she asked. Then she sat down breathing a sigh of relief.

Later as the needle pierced my arm, the nurse said that I was receiving the last of their vaccine. They would not get any more. Wow! That was a close call. As I was leaving, the woman with a cane was waiting to speak to me. She had been told of the vaccine shortage when she arrived and she just wanted to know that I had been immunized.

She thanked me again for giving her my chair. Though she didn't tell me her name, she did tell me her story. After being widowed, she had married her husband's best friend, but their happiness was short lived due to an accident. Her new husband lost both his legs and after several months of trying to save her right leg, it had been amputated below her knee. She told me about the long nights they had spent in the hospital holding hands, weeping and praying. She was now able to walk with a prosthesis. Her husband still awaited his prosthetic fittings.

As we said good-bye, I wished her luck. "Thanks," she said "but I'd rather have your prayers because it was the Lord who brought us through our dark hours." I hadn't told her I was a Christian, but I agreed to pray for them. "Would you please pray for us next August?" she asked. With a puzzled look on my face, I said I would. Seeing my expression, she smiled and told me that she and her husband planned to dance one dance together next August on their second wedding anniversary. I had never before seen such a radiant expression of hope and joy on anyone's face. She was not a pretty woman, but she looked beautiful!

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, your love and faithfulness are indeed wondrous to behold. As we journey through advent and celebrate your birth, help each of us to find radiant joy in our relationship with you. Amen.

Judy Welc 

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December 4, 2009

The Christmas Light

Scripture: 1 John 1:5-7 "This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin."

Reflection: As we head through the Christmas season, one of the things that we love to do as a family is to drive around neighborhoods and look at the Christmas lights. On snowy nights where the moonlight glistens on the snow and the stars twinkle in the sky, it makes it even more special as we view the bright and colorful lights on homes.

In the beginning, God separated the light from the darkness. He created the sun to warm and brighten our world. He created the stars and moon to provide beauty and light at night. Throughout the bible, the connections of light to God are everywhere. When darkness descended on Egypt, He put lights in the Israelites' homes. He led the Israelites through the wilderness at night with a pillar of fire. When Jesus was born, the angels lit up the sky for the shepherds. The correlation between God and light is unmistakable.

At Christmas the connection becomes even stronger for us with all the Christmas lights and the birth of the Christmas light, Jesus Christ. Jesus came to the earth to be the light of the world, the light that would pierce the darkness. Just like all of those other Christmas lights light up the night, Jesus came to light up the lives of those around Him. John 8:12 says, "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.'" Jesus will never fade and He will never burn out. Those of us that have chosen to follow Him and allow Him to be our Savior and Lord will never again have to face the empty darkness.

Prayer: Father, thank You for sending Jesus Your Son to be our light in this very dark world. Thank You that You loved us so much You were willing to give us the ultimate Christmas Light as a gift of grace You were in the beginning as the light and You will forever reign in Heaven as the light of the city. Lord, pierce the darkness that surrounds all of us this Christmas season. May we rely on You and Your light to guide our path and lead our way. Amen!

Cindy Thomson

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December 3, 2009

Title: Peace or Stress?

Scripture:  For to us a child is born, to us a son is given...he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

 You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Isaiah 26:3

 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. John 16:33 

Reflection:  Unfortunately, the Christmas season can often be a source of worry and stress.  We try to find the perfect present for everyone on our list, we have decorating and baking to do, there are Christmas cards to send, and we also have all those Christmas programs and parties to attend.  These things by themselves can actually be fun, but when you add them all together along with crowds, grumpy people, snow, time restraints and financial restraints, it equals STRESS!

 When this happens, we need to turn to our Lord.  It's interesting that the very one who can bring peace to our season is the one whom we've neglected to make the center of our season.  By keeping our focus on him, trusting him and opening our hearts to his love-he can create peace in the midst of our chaos.  When we let him be a part of ALL we do this Christmas season, there'll be no room left for stress.  

Prayer: Prince of Peace, forgive us for getting so caught up in the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, that we've forgotten to make you the most important part.  Help us to open our hearts and let you in.  And thank you for the peace, love and joy you send us when we do. Amen. 

Sharon Irvin 

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December 2, 2009

Gifts of the Christ

 It has become such a busy world. And this holiday season starts earlier and gets busier with each passing year. It's hard to go shopping. So try making your Christmas shopping itself a gift giving time! Give a little of Jesus-style giving this season when you are out and about! Hold the door open for a couple of people coming and going from the store, or offer your help to a struggling mom. Offer to babysit for a young mother so she can have a couple of hours to herself, or scoop someone's walk. Take someone a plate of cookies.  Oh, you do these things already? Then, you have made a busy world, a better world. Merry Christmas!

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December 1, 2009

Peace on Earth

Micah 5:2, 4-5 But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times......He will stand and shepherd his fl ock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they will live securely, for then his greatness will reach to the ends of the earth. And he will be their peace. But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times......He will stand and shepherd his fl ock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they will live securely, for then his greatness will reach to the ends of the earth. And he will be their peace.

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 David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord ." 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 David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord ."

The prophetic books of the Old Testament are full of predictions of doom and gloom for the sinful people of Israel, but they are also tempered with promises of redemption and forgiveness. These verses from Micah predicting the coming of the Messiah were written about 700 years before the actual birth of Jesus, a descendant of King David, in the city of Bethlehem, as described in the New Testament gospels.

Prayer: Father God, Your long-ago promise of peace is as important to twenty-fi rst century Americans as it was to the ancient Hebrews. Thank You for Your reassurance through the words of Paul in his letter to the Philippians: "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Amen
Father God, Your long-ago promise of peace is as important to twenty-fi rst century Americans as it was to the ancient Hebrews. Thank You for Your reassurance through the words of Paul in his letter to the Philippians: "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Amen

Judith Keller

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November 30, 2009

 PROPHECIES

SCRIPTURE: Out of the stump of David's family will grow a shoot-yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root.  Isaiah 11:1

"For the time is coming, " says the Lord, "when I will place a righteous Branch on King David's throne. He will do what is just and right throughout the land." Jeremiah 23:5

Reflection: Isaiah, a prophet, writes about many prophecies that contain predictions that foretell a future event. In Isaiah 11:1, he is foretelling the birth of Jesus. He uses the concrete example of an old stump as David's family tree and a new shoot will emerge from the stump and bring the promise of Jesus' birth. Jeremiah also delivered prophecies and in Jeremiah 23:5, he told what Jesus would be like.

As we begin Advent, we need to remember God's promise in our life, Jesus, and what he brought to our life and be thankful for Jesus' birth and celebrate Jesus' birth with renewed commitment and faith.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for Jesus' birth and what he brings to our life. Amen

Susan Taylor

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November 29, 2009

Title: Room at your inn

Scripture: In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register. 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 in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2: 1-7

Reflection: Jesus was born into the world in a stable because there was no room in the inn. What kind of room do you give him? Do you say I have no room in my life for you? Do you relegate him to the stable or corners of your life? Do you give him the cheap economy room or give him only a little of your life? Are you are giving him the penthouse, the very best room or your own room? I hope you are giving him the run of the inn (your life) and have reserved the ballroom and invited all of your friends and acquaintances in to meet him.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, into this world. Please help us to let you into all the corners of our lives. Amen.

Jan Mitchell

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November 28, 2009

SCRIPTURE: Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Psalm 105:1-2

One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him -- and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, "Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?" Then he said to him, "rise and go; your faith has made you well." Luke 17:15-19

REFLECTION: At this time of year, as we think more on giving thanks, I thought of the children's song, Ten Lepers. The words go like this:
Ten men, lepers in a Hebrew town.
Ten crying: "Lord, won't You please come down."
No hope near 'till one fine day,
Jesus of Nazareth passed that way.
Ten unclean and no where to go.
Ten men cleansed as clean as snow.
One returned to give God thanks,
But nine went away.

Are we like the one that returned to give God thanks or are we like the nine that went away? I would like to think that I and you are the one that returned to give God thanks.
This thanks needs to be daily, hourly and always, not just on the special day when we dwell on it more. Each day is a gift from God and we can always start the day with a thanks for that gift. We can try to use the time and each day wisely for Him. There is no end to the thanks that we can give to God as He has given us every thing that we have and that we are. Start your list today, and keep it going always. Lord, thank you for.................(you fill in with your thanks). Be the one that returns to the Lord with thanksgiving and not the nine that went away. After all, Thanksgiving is thanksliving!!!

Prayer: Lord, we do pause before you to give you thanks. Thank yor for all that you have done for us, for all the blessings that you have given to us -- food, health, homes, families,
your presence in our lives, freedoms, your word so we may grow closed to you. Lord this is only a beginning. Let us to remember to give thanks always. Amen

Marilyn (Jones) Albin 

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November 27, 2009

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

In everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. I Thessalonians 5:18

Reflection: It is God's will that we as His people be thankful people for all of God's blessings. I have often heard the term, "Thanksgiving means Thanks-living."

This has caused me to wonder what reason or feeling connects these terms. What describes a thanks-living person? It has come to me that in my youthful years I would often use an expression in my Thank you notes. When a relative would give a gift, I usually would include in the note the sentence, I hope I will be worthy of it. It occurs to me that this is the feeling of desire of a person who is truly thankful to God. When we feel thankful we want to please the one who gave the gift. It is the same in our relationship with God. To be pleasing to God is to do what God has told us to do. This is summarized for us in the great commandment, to love God and to love one another.

Years ago in my home church in Hayward, California, there was a woman who seemingly was always there. She volunteered to do what needed to be done, and usually served when asked. Her words and attitude was that if I do not go somewhere as a missionary, I need to do God's work here. She also said many times that if we do not go somewhere as a missionary, we should give money to send someone. Involved in thanks living is living our lives to please God and to be doing God's work. May we be thinking today how we are thanks-living.

Prayer: Our Dear God, we pray that as we count our blessings this season of celebration of harvest and all we have received from you that you help us to Respond by thanks-living. In Jesus name we pray. Amen

Herb Young

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November 26, 2009

Give Thanks

Scriptures: Give thanks to the Lord, call on His name; make known among the nations what He has done.    I Chronicles 16:8 

I will give thanks to the Lord because of His righteousness, and I will sing praise to the Lord Most High.    Psalm7:17 

The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped.  My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song.    Psalm 28:7 

You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to you and not be silent.  O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever.           Psalm 30:11-12

I will give you thanks in the great assembly; among throngs of people I will praise you.  Psalm 35:18

We give thanks to you, O God. We give thanks; for your name is near, (people) tell of your wonderful deeds.    Psalm 75:1

Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praises His name.    Psalm 100:4

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.    Psalm 107:1

You are my God, and I will give thanks; you are my God, and I will exalt you.    Psalm 118:28

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

Give thanks to the God of gods, His love endures forever.

Give thanks to the Lord of lords, His love endures forever.   

Give thanks to the God of heaven, His love endures forever.    Psalm 136:1,2,3, & 26 

Devotional:  I have been thinking about the word "thanks" and it seems linked to the word "give".  In fact, thanks are one of the few gifts we can give to God.  We can give two important gifts, our heart-or love, and our thanks-or gratitude.  Both seem intertwined.  If we love someone, we experience thankfulness for him or her.  If we are thankful to someone, that gratefulness naturally deepens to love. 

You may have read or heard that David had a heart for God.   What does that mean?  He loved God passionately, even exuberantly, and he breathed out that love in "giving" thanks, praise and song. 

Prayer: Dear Father, thank you!  Thank you for who you are, all you give to us.   Our love to you.    Amen

Angie Berkebile

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November 25, 2009

TITLE: "Thanks-Giving"

SCRIPTURE: 1 Chronicles 29: 11-13 Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory and the victory, and the majesty; for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as head above all. Both riches and honor come from thee, and thou rulest over all. In thy hand are power and might; and in thy hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank thee our God and praise thy glorious name. RSV

REFLECTION: This is the eve of our national Thanksgiving holiday. I have noticed there are different ways that people pronounce the word "thanksgiving". Some people emphasize the "thanks" and some emphasize the "giving". Does the emphasis change the meaning? - maybe.

It is good and appropriate for us to give thanks to God for all that he has provided. However, God also expects that in addition to expressing appreciation, we are required to respond also with giving to God and to each other.

Whichever way you pronounce it have a blessed Thanksgiving.

PRAYER: Dear Lord God, we give you thanks and praise for all you have given to us. Help us to learn how we can express that thanks by giving. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Kathy Kuehn 

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November 24, 2009

TITLE: THANKFULNESS

SCRIPTURE: Colossians 3:15-16. "The peace that Christ gives us is to guide you in the decisions you make; for it is to this peace that God has called you together in the one body. And be thankful. Christ's message in all its richness must live in your hearts. Teach and instruct one another with all wisdom. Sing psalms, hymns and sacred songs; sing to God with thanksgiving in your hearts. Everything you do or say, then, should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, as you give thanks through him to God the Father."

I Thessalonians 5:16-18. "Be joyful always, pray at all times, be thankful in all circumstances. This is what God wants from you in your life in union with Christ Jesus."

REFLECTION: I often find myself taking for granted the very things in my life that I should be most grateful for....good health, good friends, my church, my family, enough to eat, the right to make my own decisions, and enough money to live on, (though not lavishly). I see beauty all around me this fall (and I especially appreciate that lovely red maple right outside my condo, that helps me enjoy my breakfasts, lunches and dinners.) It is the small ordinary things we should be most thankful for...the things we seldom notice.

G. K. Chesterson says, "You say grace before meals. All right. But I say grace before the concert and the opera, and grace before the play and pantomime, and grace before I open a book, and grace before sketching, painting, swimming, fencing, boxing, walking, playing, dancing, and grace before I dip the pen in the ink."

We are so blessed!!! And we must continually be thanking God for all he has done for us. And his greatest gift of all was his son, Jesus Christ, sent into the world to die on the cross for our sins. Hallelujah, what a precious gift that is!!

PRAYER: : Dear Lord, "For each new morning with its light, For rest and shelter of the night, For health and food, for love and friends, For everything thy goodness sends." Amen (Ralph Waldo Emerson)

Gerry Draney 

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November 23, 2009

TITLE: November, the Month of Thanksgiving.

SCRIPTURE: Ephesians, 5:20, In thr name of our Lord Jesus Christ, always give THANKS for everything to God the Father.

REFLECTION: I am sure we all know the song, "Count your Blessings, name them one by one, and see what God has done." WOW, name them "one by one." How long would that take? How long of a list would we have?

We had just finished our meal and were still sitting around the Thanksgiving dinner table when our host said, "we have many things for which to be thankful for, so we can't take time to list then all. But each of us can think of one thing, the thing which you are MOST thankful for." Looking at the children he warned, "and don't repeat what someone else says.. We will start with the youngest and continue according to age. We will ask our guests to be last."

The Children told what they were thankful for and why. A new puppy, a bicycle, a doll. I was glad their remarks were not lengthy. Being last had a disadvantage, one could not repeat what another had said. The father of one had just become a Christian and God has answered prayer for the mother during a recent illness. He could not talk about salvation or answered prayer. But he then said, "I am thankful for what God has taught me about faith. We know that we receive Jesus Christ by faith for our salvation. We did nothing to earn it.

Yes, faith in God and not money. For money can buy a bed, but not sleep. Food, but not an appetite. A house, but not a home. A Church, but not Heaven. We have countless blessings. We should think of the many people who live from one meal to the next, never quite sure that there will be another to eat. Or many People who this winter will shiver from lack of a warm place to live. Then my problems become ever so small.

A true story is told of a lad who wanted $50.00 for his birthday so he could buy a bicycle. Lo and behold, what did he receive? A Bible. He was upset and took the Bible and put it away in the attic. Years later, he was cleaning out the attic and came across his Bible. He opened it and out fell the $50.00. "WOW" he said, "if I would have only read my Bible, I would have found this money and more."

The other day I watched a fat robin pull three worms from the grass and then fly up the branches of a tree, just outside my window. And there, I imagined he gave me a rendition of "Praise ye the Lord." He did not complain about the size or color of the worms, he was just satisfied with what he had found.

Our life is a gift from God. We live it one breath at a time. This Thanksgiving when we look around, don't look at what others have and wish we had this or that, but look at what we HAVE that they don't have, thanks be to God.

PRAYER: Please Dear Lord, when it comes time to breathe a prayer of thanks, please don't let me hold my breath. Amen.

Bob Schiebinger 

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November 22, 2009

The 7 Ups

1. Wake Up!

Decide to have a good day.

This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalms 118:24

2. Dress Up! 

The best way to dress up is to put on a smile. A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.

The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.  I Samuel 16:7

3. Shut Up!

Say nice things and learn to listen. God gave us two ears and one mouth, so He must have meant for us to do twice as much listening as talking.

He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin. Proverbs 13:3

4. Stand Up!

. . for what you believe in. Stand for something or you will fall for anything.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

5. Look Up!

. . . to the Lord.

I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me.  Philippians 4:13 

6. Reach Up!

. . .for something higher.

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.  Proverbs 3:5-6

7. Lift Up!

. . .your prayers.

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

Prayer:    If He  had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it.  If He had a wallet, your photo would be in it.  He sends you flowers every spring, and a sunrise every morning.Whenever you want to talk, He'll listen. He could live anywhere in the universe, and He chose your heart.  What about the Christmas gift He sent you in Bethlehem; not to mention that Friday at Calvary.  Face it, He's crazy about you.    

Help us to remember him as often as he thinks of us.

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November 21, 2009

Scripture:  2 Corinthians 5:7  Paul says, "We walk by faith, not by sight."

Reflection:  Today is the 10th Birthday of the email devotional ministry of Eastridge Presbyterian Church. Some who are reading this today answered the call 10 years ago to make this a reality.  Many others of you have written at various times.  And all of you who have been willing to be ministered to and have in-turn ministered to others by passing on the devotionals or talking with others about them.  

Through this ministry I have seen the work of the Spirit and I am so very thankful.  For those of you contemplating a step of faith - here is an example of taking that first step in faith. When this ministry started I'm sure no one thought about a day 10 months down the road, much less 10 years.  And yet it's already come, and the ministry is alive and vibrant.  Through this ministry people have been touched, enriched, challenged, and strengthened.  Through this ministry we have learned to know God, and each other, better, and to see the Scriptures reflected in our earthly lives. We have had many "God moments" as through this ministry we have found expression of our struggles with faith and with life, and have found answers that have helped not only the writers but also the readers.

Praise be to God!  We don't need to see the end.  We only need to hear the call and take the next step.

Prayer:  Dearest Lord and guider of our steps,  You are the source of all goodness.  Thank you for the ways that you move us to act and then guide our steps.  When we make mistakes along the way, you salvage what is good in our work.  When we get disheartened you provide encouragement.  And in the end, we can only be thankful for your faithfulness
Amen

Lori Snyder-Sloan 

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 November 20, 2009

"Sweet Hour of Prayer"   

SCRIPTURE:     "And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up for dead.  And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him."  Acts 20:9-10.

"Pray without ceasing."  2 Thessalonians 5:17.

MEDITATION:  Many of us older folks well remember church services and revivals of our youth when sermons might last a couple of hours and prayers 20 minutes or even longer-or so it seemed to a restless child!  I am reminded of an old folk song my older brother used to sing:  "Oh, the deacon went down in the cellar to pray, fell asleep and prayed all day."

 I have  in later life wondered what the preachers had to say that made their prayers so long. I suppose there was the usual list of things to be thankful for:  being able to gather together, abundant harvests and rain, a favorable outcome of the recent school board election, perhaps salvation and grace.  Then maybe there was a long list of intercessions for members and family

who were sick or mourning the loss of loved ones; prayers for the nation's leaders, the safety of fighting men and women, etc., etc., etc. ad infinitum.  I suspect some preachers undertook to inform an omniscient God of certain facts he ought to know-"Please heal Frank, Louise's brother-in-law's nephew, who fell under the wheels of a steam engine last Saturday morning at a quarter of nine on the family farm a mile and half east and a mile north of Williamstown and is in St. Luke's hospital, Room 232,  in Des Moines, with a broken left femur," and I suppose, as was the fashion of the day, not a few references to vengeance and fire and  brimstone. 

 Christ admonished his followers "When ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking," and his own model prayer takes little more than 20 seconds to repeat!  And we don't have to save everything up for one prayer, delivered once or twice a day or on Sunday morning.  We are to pray unceasingly, that

is, to be in a constant attitude of prayer, walking humbly with our God and communing with him as we go on life's way. 

PRAYER:  Our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.  Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven..  Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.  And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever, Amen.      

Keith M. Heim 

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November 19, 2009

TITLE: The Hills

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 121:1, "I lift my eyes to the hills - from where will my help come?"

REFLECTION:  I imagine one of the Israelites looking to the hills and presented with a choice. Shall I go to the Temple of the Lord or the high places of the gods? Shall I worship the Holy One of Israel or Baal? From where will my help come today?

Of course, this either/or decision is quickly muddled. The hills blur together. The line between Mt. Zion and Mt. Baal is not always clear. The Israelite's heart is pulled in more than one direction. Each hill looks inviting. Each god has something to offer.

Perhaps he thinks to himself, "I know where my true help comes, but what can it hurt to get a little help from another source? My family and friends are doing it. Besides, I'm only dabbling in idols. It's not like I'm completely giving myself to Baal. In the end, I know who is ultimately in charge. Surely God understands."

It's a game we like to play. Teetering on the edge of wholehearted obedience, we flirt with complete trust yet never give our hearts fully to God. We can pretend we are living the Yahweh-life without really living it. We dabble. We play. We stop short when it counts the most.

The psalmist, however, is one Israelite who has made up his mind. Already knowing the answer to his question he asks, "...from where will my help come?" What is the answer? I don't need to tell you. The right Sunday School answer won't get you very far anyway. The point is that you lift your eyes to the hills and see for yourself. The hills are beckoning. To whom will you turn?

PRAYER: Lord of heaven and earth, no god compares with Your glory. No idol competes with Your majesty. As You turn Your face toward us may we turn our faces toward You. Amen.

 Pastor J.P. Carlson 

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November 18, 2009

"So do not be afraid of them, There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known." Matt. 10: 26 "Now we can see that you know all things and that you do not even need to have anyone ask you questions. This makes us believe that you came from  God." John 16: 30

There we were, standing in front of the bathroom mirror, my daughter and I, touching up makeup and fixing our hair, thirty minutes before our family photography appointment. I picked up the small hand mirror which was lying close by, and held it up behind my head, in full view of the larger one on the wall. Out of habit, I was checking to make sure the hair on the backside was fluffed just right, arranged and in place. I caught her watching me from the corner of my eye, when she teased, "Mom, it doesn't matter what the back of your head looks like! No one's going
to see it!" Once the laughter subsided, I realized that she was right!!! Only the front two-thirds of my face was all that needed to be presentable for the photo!! The back third of me could have been completely disheveled and unkempt and no one would ever have known, as long as my best face was put forward.

How many times in life do we put our best face forward, hoping no one will notice our disheveled, fearful, angry, shameful, or hurting insides? What lengths will we go to cover up our insecurities and our true selves? How about with others? Do we take the time to look past the rumors, the forced smiles, misunderstood silences, or attention-getting actions, to see inside the true person? Do we extend a helping hand or offer a warm smile, a listening ear or a comforting shoulder?

In the scripture passages, Jesus reminds us that, in Him, we will find a place where we can truly be ourselves! He is all-knowing, all loving, and all holy! We cannot hide from Him or pretend to be anything other than who we are. Even though it may be scary to feel that exposed, ultimately, it will be a real comfort. He loves us unconditionally; every part of us...with our best faces forward, our disheveled backsides or our shaken insides.

Humankind may never understand our struggles or our efforts in 'righting' them with the Lord. They may never understand what's in our hearts, what we fight or live with everyday or where we are on our journey of healing, reconciliation, and renewal. Only God knows and provides us a place of true acceptance, forgiveness, and encouragement! We will experience His mercy and grace if we accept Him in our hearts! He asks us to humbly and honestly expose our true selves to Him, ask for forgiveness from Him, show our gratitude for Him, and strive to keep His
Word as our guide and focus.

Heavenly Father, We come humbly before you, with the parts of ourselves we want you to see and the parts we'd like to hide from you. Even though you see it all, you love us anyway! Thank you for your patience, mercy and grace and help us to love others, as you have loved us. Amen.

Diane Harris  

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November 17, 2009

LIGHT AND WARMTH

Scripture:  Psalm 119: 105 - "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path".

Matthew 5: 15,16 - "Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on a stand and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men -----".

 REFLECTION - It was a chilly evening, and after driving in the rain that afternoon, what a welcoming sight when we returned to the Lied Lodge in NE City to see a blazing fire in the lounge fireplace. We sat in front of it and it gave us warmth, both physical and spiritual. But after some time the flames diminished as only two logs remained. Would someone tend this fire to keep it flaming and giving warmth? Yes, a caretaker came and placed several new logs on it.

Like the fireplace, our Christian living must be tended and fueled to give ourselves and others comfort and light for spiritual guidance.

Nowadays, some fireplaces are fueled by gas as well as wood. How can we fuel our spiritual fireplaces? - by prayer, reading and meditation of God's Word, listening to and heeding God's Word in sermons, listening to and participating in music, and sharing experiences with others - these are some of the ways.

Prayer: Let us keep our light shining to show our faith and to give praise to God by tending it carefully and fervently. Thank you, God, for your everlasting faithfulness. Amen.

Ravera Edwards 

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November 16, 2009

Humility

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

Proverbs: 11:2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.

REFLECTION:  Today as I was cleaning the bathroom, I thought about how the job of scrubbing the toilet is humbling. I don't mean the easy, couple of swishes with the brush cleaning, but the down on your knees, face near the water, elbow grease scrubbing under the rim with a pumice stone. Then add in washing the floor on your hands and knees with a bucket. What amazes me is this is all MY family's dirt! I then thought of those people in our lives who we take for granted, our garbage haulers and the janitors at work (thanks Ki and Paul!).

Cleaning is also a time for me to pray. My bible comments for this passage says, "Humility is standing before God, seeing our inadequacy in light of his sufficiency, and recognizing our vast need of him." At the end of my cleaning task I have a sparkling bathroom, perspective for the events of life swirling around me, and most importantly, time spent with my Lord (even if it's in the bathroom!).

PRAYER: Dear Father God: Thank you for those subtle and sometimes not-so-subtle ways in which you humble us so that we remember our great need for you. Grant us wisdom and perspective to do those things you wish us to do and to let go of the things that you can handle far better than us. In your son's name we pray, Amen.

Cathy Schapmann 

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 November 15, 2009

Scripture:  Galatians 6:7-10  ... the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.  Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people...

Devotion: Each year, I watch the leaves fall and feel the world grow cold.  It seems to be a dying of what I have known for the last few months.  But I also know, in my heart, that in the spring those same trees will show buds of joy for spring. As the harvest progresses, the cornfields become barren and the bean fields show the earth again.  But they too will be replanted when spring comes again to my part of this old earth of ours.

In many ways, Christians follow these same paths.  We lose our hair, grown crooked in our stature, smile less and sometimes even grow dour in our dispositions.  But through the years, we have times to enjoy our lives.  There are times for bringing in the harvests; there is the opportunity for replanting of the seeds of love and education for those around us at all times.  And, too, there is the promise of rebirth through Jesus Christ much as the trees promise to bud again in the spring. 

Prayer:  Thank you God for the promise of springtime in all our lives through the death of your son, Jesus Christ.  Amen

Contributed by Carolyn F. Olsen

 

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 Novebmer 14, 2009

TITLE: Give Thanks Unto the Lord. 

SCRIPTURE: Corinthians: 4:7. Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in EVERYTHING give thanks, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

REFLECTION: Why are the words "always" and "everything" challenging for us? Perhaps it is because adverse situations make it hard to rejoice always and to give thanks in everything. Surely God does not intend for us always to be filled with praise and thanksgiving, we say. But, the Scriptures confirm that He does.

November is the month where we celebrate Thanksgiving. You have certain things that you thank God for and I have mine. But we all have one thing in common at Thanksgiving, as found in Psalms 103:2. "Bless the Lord O my soul and forget not ALL His benefits." To have God as our Father and Jesus Christ as our Savior and the Holy Spirit as our Comforter, is to experience a true fellowship and true gladness in our heart.

I would like to tell you a beautiful story of a little girl who went sightseeing with here father to the top of Mount Washington. Standing in the air and bright sunshine, with a clear blue sky above them, they saw to their surprise that dark heavy clouds were gathering below. As they looked down lightning began to flash and with a roll of thunder a storm broke over the valley below. The father said to his daughter, " well Lucy, with the clouds all around, there is nothing much to see, is there?" Lucy, who was deeply spiritual, was thrilled with the beauty and majesty of the scene said, "Oh papa, t think it is wonderful, I see the doxology, everything seems to be saying, Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost." This seems to all boil down to how you and I look at things, see things, doesn't it?

Happiness is something we create in our mind. It's not something you search for and so seldom find. It's just waking up and beginning the day by counting our blessings and kneeling to pray.

I like to think of our heart with many doors and that we have the key to each door. We can unlock the door of thankfulness. We can then use the key of Happiness to unlock that door. Then unlock the door of Forgiveness. We have many other leys that we can use to other doors of our heart. Remember, not in having or receiving, but in GIVING there is bless. Giving is the TRUE measure of love.

Every day is Thanksgiving. Even though I clutch my blanket and growl when the alarm rings each morning, thank you Lord that I can hear. There are many who are deaf. Even though I keep my eyes closed against the morning light as long as possible, thank you Lord that I can see. There are many who are blind.

I would like to close with the following. A converted girl lay dying. A lady visitor asked, "are you afraid my child?" "Oh no" she replied, "but what shall I say to Jesus when I meet Him, for I seem to have never done anything for Him. You see, my Mother died when I was ten. I tried to do as she had done and took care of the four little ones, kept the house tidy, and then I was too tired to do more." Taking the rough little hand of the dying girl into her own, the visitor, with eyes full of tears, said tenderly, "I would not say anything dear, but just show God your hands." Yes, show Jesus our hands, our hands of love, hands of helping others, our hands of praying for others and hands of faith.

PRAYER: My prayer is that the Lord will Bless each and everyone of us this Thanksgiving Holiday Season. Yes, "bless the Lord oh my soul and forget not all His benefits." Amen.

Contributed by: Bob Schiebinger

 

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November 13, 2009

Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center

SCRIPTURE: The heavens keep telling the wonders of God, and the skies show us what God has done. Psalm 19

Be still, and know that I am God, Psalm 46:10

God has provided all kinds of fruit, grain and seeds for us to eat. There will be foods for animals both wild and tame and for the birds. Genesis 1:29-30

Be strong like a tree planted near water. That tree has large roots that find water. It is not afraid when the days are hot. It does not worry when no rain comes. That tree produces fruit. Jeremiah 17:18

A sower went out to sow. Some seeds fell on the path, and the birds came and ate them up. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they could not grow. Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain. Matthew 13:3-8

Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving, make music to praise God who covers the heavens with clouds, prepares rain for the earth, makes grass grow on the hills. Psalm 147:7-8

REFLECTION: I recently was involved in planning a faith based event at Spring Creek Prairie for families. Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center is a 808-acre tallgrass prairie nature preserve located near Denton, Nebraska. It has miles of walking trails, nearly 650 acres of native (never plowed) tallgrass prairie, ponds and wetlands, wildflowers and grasses as well as birds and other wildlife.

The families first made a booklet that had the above scriptures. They then headed out on the trail and stopped at the stations. It was a beautiful day, a little windy, but sunny. They experienced the blue skies and the colors of the prairie, the sounds and beauty of nature, the seeds of the grasses, the ponds and ruts of wagons of 1860 and ended with praise to the Lord for all he created for us with music and a short worship service.

Take time to take an adventure into Nature and praise God for what he has created for us.

PRAYER: Lord, Thank you for all you have created and entrusted to us to appreciate and take care of. Amen

Susan Taylor

 

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November 12, 2009

TITLE: Prayer

SCRIPTURE: But when you pray, go into your room close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Matthew 6:6

REFLECTION: I find that I feel the closest to God when I pray in the early mornings. Frequently, I will fall asleep as soon as my head hits the pillow so praying at bedtime isn't always an option. But, I find I can have a little quiet time in the mornings, before everyone else's day starts, and I can be alone in prayer.

I do not know what the rewards will be that this verse talks about. But, I do know that I feel like I am getting a much better start to the day when I start with prayer. My outlook is brighter, I feel like I can handle more, and it seems like I am less stressed, so I can find more time for those around me. I find it easy then to remember to thank God for all the wonderful blessings he has given me.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, help us to find time alone with you in prayer each day. Help us to use that time to get close to you, and to share our problems with you. Help us to remember to thank you for all you do for us. Amen.

Laurie Schlitt

 

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November 11, 2009 

Title: Through, in or from the fire, God is with us.

Scripture: Daniel 3: 16-18 and 23-25 Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up." ..."and these three men, firmly tied, fell into the blazing furnace. Then King Nebuchadnezzar leaped to his feet in amazement and asked his advisers, "Weren't there three men that we tied up and threw into the fire?" They replied, "Certainly, O king." He said, "Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods."

John 15:4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

Reflection: I read something last week in our Beth Moore Bible Study of the book of Daniel that has stuck with me. Maybe you remember the part of Daniel where Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego choose to go into the fiery furnace rather than denounce God. (Or if you're a VeggieTales fan you know them as Rack, Shack and Bennie.) They tell Nebuchadnezzar that they don't need to defend themselves to him and that they have faith God will protect them from the fire, and say "But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up. " Then they are thrown into the fire. But the critical moment is when their assailant who looks in the fire, he sees that not only are the three men walking around safely in the fire, there is a fourth man in there with them.

Beth Moore then explains this so clearly when she says, "When people of God face a fiery trial there are three different scenarios":
A: They are delivered through the fire - the outcome is that faith if refined.
B: They are delivered from the fire - the outcome is that faith is built.
C: They are delivered by the fire into his arms (death) - the outcome is that faith is made perfect.

Perhaps you or someone you love is now experiencing a fiery trial. Though the fire itself may be painful and terrifying, isn't it still wonderful to know that we are never in the fire alone? The outcome may vary; the effect on our faith may differ; but the fact remains that God is in the fire with us. He abides with us and he wants us to abide with Him.

Prayer: Dear Lord, we are told we never walk alone. We know that in our minds, but in the time of fire we often forget it in our hearts. Thank you for illustrations like this that find a place in our hearts and help us when we find ourselves or someone we love in the midst of a fire. Thank you so very much for your faithfulness! Amen

Lori Snyder-Sloan 

 

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November 10, 2009 

 

TITLE: The Blessing

SCRIPTURE: Deuteronomy 30:19-20 This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him.

REFLECTION: God gives us choices each day. Do we listen as we should to hear God's voice in helping us make decisions?

A couple of years back I was introduced to the work of a Christian musician by the name of John Waller. He has an album out called "The Blessing". The album is fantastic and if you enjoy Christian music I encourage you to check it out.

The title song of the album is also named "The Blessing":

"The Blessing" lyrics by John Waller

Let it be said of us
while we walked among the living
let it be said of us
by the ones we leave behind
let it be said of us
that we lived to be a blessing for life
let it be said of us
that we gave to reach the dying
let it be said of us
by the fruit we leave behind
let it be said of us that our legacy is blessing for life
this day
you set life, you set death right before us, this day
every blessing and curse is a choice now
and we will
choose to be a blessing for life
let it be said of us
that our hearts belonged to Jesus
let it be said of us
that we spoke the words of life
let it be said of us
that our heritage is blessing for life

(chorus)
for your Kingdom
for our Children
for the sake of every nation

God has set choices in front of us. We have the opportunity to make choices that not only affect us and our well-being but also the well-being of our families and friends and even strangers. The choices we make in our lives can definitely lead to blessings and curses.

We should strive to be closer to God and ask for his help in all we do. If we are willing to pray and to listen, God will provide us with direction to make wise choices.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, please remind us to look to you when we have choices to make in our lives. You are there and will always provide us answers if we are willing to ask. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

David Pinkerman 

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November 9, 2009

TITLE: Repent

SCRIPTURE: Jeremiah 7:3, 5, & 7. Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: Amend your ways and your doings, and let me dwell with you in this place. For if you truly amend your ways
and your doings, if you truly act justly one with another, then I will dwell with you in this place, in the land that I gave of old to your ancestors forever and ever.

REFLECTION: In our EYOB readings, we have just completed the book of Jeremiah. He was the chosen prophet by God to communicate to the people of Judah and Jerusalem. This was during the time the people there were living their lives in a very sinful way, and God had become very discouraged and dissatified with them.

Because of the people's sinful ways, God had communicated to Jeremiah that Judah and Jerusalem would be destroyed. Jeremiah was the prophet to deliver God's message to the people. This message from God was that continued sin would cause their destruction by the Babylonian army. Jeremiah did not hesitate to tell the people what they were doing wrong. His direct prophecy to them caused him, at one time, to be imprisoned, and another time to be thrown into a cistern to die. He was very faithful and obedient to God.

The people refused to listen to Jeremiah. Yet, he had such compassion for the people that despite their sinful ways, he continuously pleaded to them to sincerely repent of their wrongdoings, to change their ways, and God would save them.

Jeremiah's prophecy is the same for us today. The important key is to truly repent of any wrongdoings. To repent, is to change from sin. Then God will be in our lives to save us from our personal destruction and provide an everlasting life.

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, we pray for the strength and desire to turn our lives from sin and reach the goal of a life that is pleasing in Your sight. In Your Son's name we pray. Amen.

Lauren Holcombe

 

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November 8, 2009

TITLE: GIVE THANKS

SCRIPTURE: Give thanks to the Lord of lords: His love endures forever.
to Him who alone does great wonders, His love endures forever.
who by His understanding made the heavens, HIs love endures forever. Psalm 136: 3-5

Praise the Lord.
Praise God in his sanctuary; praise Him in his mighty heavens.
Praise Him for his acts of power; praise Him for his surpassing greatness.
Praise Him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise Him with the harp and the lyre.
Praise Him with tambourine and dancing, praise Him with the strings and the flute,
Praise Him with the clash of cymbals, praise Him with resounding cymbals.
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.
Praise the Lord. Psalm 150

REFLECTION: In this month of Thanksgiving, I need the whole month to think of all the gifts for which I want to thank God. The 136th chapter of Psalm reminds me of the greatest gift, that he loves a sinner like me, and that love endures forever. Because of that love, He humbled himself and became man, to die and rise again to forgive my sins, so that I might experience that love forever.

He has blessed me with a healthy family. He has met our needs abundantly, that we may share with others. He has blessed us with our wonderful church family at Eastridge and opportunities to serve there. He has blessed us to live in a country of freedom and opportunity. The list of my blessings is longer than my days to thank Him, so I will humbly thank Him by my praise each day I am given here and thank Him that through His salvation, I may praise the Lord forever.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, We thank you for loving us enough to creat us, though you knew we would sin. We thank you for loving us enough to sacrifice you son for us. We thank you for your word. We thank you for your plan to include any who believe in you in your plan. We thank you for loving us with a love that endures forever. In Jesus' name, Amen

Carolyn Fetterley 

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November 7, 2009

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

REFLECTION: Our Cherub choir has been learning the song-"I've Got the Joy"-which goes:

            "I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart"

 The next verse says :

 " I've got the love of Jesus, love of Jesus Down in my heart."

 Followed by:

" I've got the peace that passes understanding down in my heart"

 And the last verse:

"I've got the wonderful peace of my blessed Redeemer way down in the depths of my heart."

 The chorus says:

            " And I'm so happy, so very happy, I have the love of Jesus in my heart"

Besides being a fun song to sing, it makes a statement. Jesus loves us, he brings us peace, and he is our Redeemer. We are happy with his love  in our hearts.

During the next few days, think about this song and smile as you think about the joy of Jesus in your heart.

Amen.

Nancy Hall

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November 6, 2009

Scripture: 2 Peter 3:8  But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. 

Reflection:  Last week we did the "fall back" thing with our clocks and moved out of daylight savings time into what I used to hear people call "God's time".  We love the feeling of an extra hour of sleep in the fall.  What a difference an hour makes!

 But the Bible reminds us that time is really a figment of human imagination.  To God, time is a whole different thing.  I imagine being able to see the past, present and future simultaneously has something to do with that, and as this reference in 2 Peter tells us, time is both longer and shorter for God.

Sometimes we are troubled that time goes by too slowly, like when we're waiting for a prayer to be answered, or too quickly, when children grow up, lives come to an end, or good times pass too slowly, we must remember that to God, these measurements of time are irrelevant.  So we must be patent when we wait for God's timing, which the Bible also tells us, is always perfect.

Prayer:  You are an all knowing and always present God. You existed before we even made time and yet sometimes we want you and your plans to march to our beat of time.  Help us to be so close to you that we can find patience and understanding of the more Godly version of time, and to trust and rely that your timing is always perfect.  Amen

Lori Snyder-Sloan

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November 5, 2009 

TITLE: Teach the Children

SCRIPTURE: Mark 10:13-16 One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could touch and bless them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him. When Jesus saw what was happening, he was angry with his disciples. He said to them, "Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn't receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it." Then he took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them.

REFLECTION: When my daughter was two years old I was asked to teach Sunday school at Eastridge. My first reaction was no way, not me, I don't know enough about the Bible or the stories. I barely attended Sunday school as a child myself. But there was something pulling me toward saying yes and I did. I had the wonderful opportunity to teach an amazing group of Kindergarteners who coincidentally graduated high school last year. And what I found was that instead of teaching the kids, we actually had the opportunity to learn together. I read them the stories and enjoyed hearing them as much as they did.

I went on and taught many other great groups of kids at all different age levels. Sometimes one of my own children was in the class and other times they were not. Each class and age level brought different experiences and blessings.

If you have been asked and like me didn't feel qualified to teach, I encourage you to take the time to experience the gift of teaching our young children at Eastridge. You will be surprised at how much they will teach you.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, Thank you for the gifts you give us in our children. May we take them all in our hearts and do all that we can to teach them about you. Amen.

Kate Wolfe

 

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November 4, 2009

TITLE: A Cheerful Volunteer

SCRIPTURE: 2 Corinthians 9:7 Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver

REFLECTION: So many churches, schools and community organizations depend on volunteers. A wise man once said, "There's nothing more powerful than the heart of a volunteer". Webster describes a volunteer this way - one who renders a service or receives a conveyance or transfer of property without giving valuable consideration.

It's so easy to get into the mindset that serving God is a chore, Excuses are easy to come by. We're too busy, we don't have the right skills, we might mess things up. But volunteering is so valuable, and so necessary. As the dictionary definition states - we give valuable consideration to our giving. The bible verse doesn't only mean that God loves a cheerful giver of money. God loves a volunteer! He wants us to cheerfully volunteer every good thing He has so mercifully allowed us to have -- things we often take for granted - our time, our energy, our abilities, our talents, our homes, our cars, our families -- all that we have - all that He has cheerfully given to us!

Let's make a point to volunteer some of these things to the Lord this week. Let's begin to bless the Lord and those around us!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, Thank you for giving us hands to help and hearts to love. Forgive us when we are so frugal with the time we spend helping others. Remind us of the example of your son, who was the perfect role model of serving others. Amen.

Cindy Thomson 

 

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November 3, 2009

TITLE: Thanks

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 104: 24-25.
O Lord, how manifold are thy works!
In wisdom hast thou made them all;
The earth is full of thy creatures.
Yonder is the sea, great and wide,
Which teems with things innumerable,
Living things both small and great.

REFLECTION: Can you believe it? I bet I've thanked God a hundred times this past week for the fantastic fall colors. Ireland with its multiple shades of green has nothing over us. The multiple shades of rust, red, orange, and yellow dotted with green and spots of brown thrown in here and there surround us. What a wondrous display color!!

We worship an extravagant God. Whether we talk of fall colors or the birds of the air or the fish of the sea there is an over-abundance of diversity. The great diversity in life gives us a richness beyond description.

PRAYER: Lord, give us eyes to see and ears to hear the great diversity in life. We thank you for being so extravagant in creating this Earth and all the living flora and fauna where we live. Thank you, God, for this day. Amen.

Lois Coleman 

 

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November 2, 2009

I Am All

I see all, I feel all, and I am all.  You won't know me till the end, yet I am part of you from birth till death. I am the whispers you hear and the voice that you ignore.  I am the white, the black, and the gray.  There is no in-between; the night and day are one.  I am silence, and I am noise.  You tell me to listen; you beg of me, and you plead.  I am without boundaries, yet you hide me.

I am with you when you think I am away.  I am inside and all around you.  I sit here above all. I watch every day, your work, your family, and your free time for only you.  Why don't you include me?  You read my book as if it's fiction.  I am the breath you breathe and the blood that flows in your veins.  I keep you alive, so in the end you will know what life truly feels like.  I put you through tests, and sometimes you fail

I talk to you to point you in the right direction; sometimes you follow, sometimes you lead your own way.  I wrap my arms around you, yet you push me away.  I walk with you and carry you when you are weak.  You tip-toe through your life; you skip when you are happy, and drag your feet when you are sad.  To you, I am fearless and fearful.  You want to be with me, yet you worry what others may think.

I am mystery with knowledge and mesmerizing with my touch.  You feel me next to you; you shrug it off as a cold chill.  The end is near, and you would know this if you took my words for truth.  Many years have passed since I created all you see. You take advantage of all I offer, but you don't use it to the fullest as you should.  I can make your life easier, I can help you with life's challenges.

I am the water, and I am the wind.  I am that old woman you walk by every day, the one who holds out her hand for your help.  I am that child crying in the department store that you pray the parent will silence.

Without me, you would not exist, you would have never been.  I enter you; you feel at peace with all around you.  I am the sunset and the sunrise.  I help you start and end your day.  I am the dirt beneath your bare feet.  I am the scent of magnolia that runs through your home.  I am never going to leave you, no matter how hard you try to push.

I am a blank sheet of paper.  I am a notebook full of thoughts.  I am what you need, yet you don't know it.  I am the want of forever and the promise of it shall be. I fulfill.  This is why you need to open your heart to me, and you will not suffer as I watch as your world is falling apart.  I can make you whole again.

I watch the ending as it begins.  You will no longer feel trapped; you are free.  Finally it is over yet it begins.  I am God.

Permission granted by Shannan Brown.  Printed in Illuminations-a booklet made up of writings by SCC students.

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November 1. 2009

Scripture & Quote: 

So teach us to number our days,
That we may gain a heart of wisdom.  Psalm 90:12

As we trust God to give us wisdom for today's decisions, He will lead us a step at a time into what He wants us to be doing in the future.  Theodore Epp  

Reflection:  A year ago a dear friend of mine died after a very brief round with cancer.  Her life was full and vibrant and people loved being around her because of her compassion and positive energy. I loved working on projects with her with because she made so much progress by working well with others and by keeping things moving along.  She wasn't afraid to put her heart and soul into whatever she was involved in, especially things that would help others. 

We never know the number of our days. Our only choice is whether or not we'll make the most of the ones we're given, starting today 

After she died, this prayer was found taped to her computer and now I have it taped to mine.  Let's share it today:

Creator God,

You give us today, one minute at a time, that's all we have.

Give us the faith that knows each moment contains exactly what is best for us.

Help us to use our time to lovingly help others and to give you glory and praise. Amen

Lori Snyder-Sloan 

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October 31, 2009

TITLE: DECEIVED

SCRIPTURE: " Do not steal.  Do not lie.  Do not deceive one another. "      (Leviticus  19: 11  NIV)

REFLECTION: When I was much younger, I didn't have to watch my weight.  I was so busy running around that the extra weight couldn't find me.  I was able to eat anything and my weight did not increase.  Now that I am older, I feel like I can just look at food and I will gain more weight.  As a result, not all of my slacks fit me quite as well.  One day I did wear a pair of slacks to work that were a little large.  One of my co-workers did mention to me that it looked like I had lost weight.  I had to laugh, tell her thank you  and say that the slacks were deceiving because they were a little too large.   As a joke I told her the secret to my weight loss was larger slacks. 

This whole weight thing made me reflect on deceiving God.  We might be able to deceive people, but we can't deceive God.  That is something we can never do because he knows our hearts.

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, help me to keep my heart focused on you each and every day.  Amen.  

Dee Ann Dilley

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October 30, 2009

TITLE: Time is moving on.

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 90:12 Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

REFLECTION: Every time we look at time, our watch, we can see the second hand moving, licking away. A clock with a second hand ticks away the time. Those seconds, of course, are the way we measure time, and time is the very essence of our lives. By the time you reach the age of 75, the clocks and watches of this world will have ticked away a total of nearly 2.5 billion seconds.

Bernard Berenson, an internationally famous art critic, had a zeal for life. Even when he was in ill health, he cherished every moment. Shortly before he died at age 94, he said to a friend, "I would willingly stand at street corners, hat in hand, asking passersby to drop their unused minutes into it." Oh, that we would learn to appreciate the value of time.

It's been estimated that a talkative person may speak 30,000 words a day. But the important question is, how do our words, whether many or few, affect others? Solomon wrote: "The tongue of the WISE promotes health" (Proverbs 12:18). The key word in that verse isn't tongue but wise. Remember, please, the tongue is not in control, but the person behind it is.

A wise old bird sat on an oak.

he more he saw the less he spoke,

The less he spoke the more he heard; Lord, make me like that wise old bird.

One time Jesus took three of His disciples on a retreat. They left the crowds and even the other disciples behind, and went up on a high hill to pray. While there Peter, James and John had a vision. They saw a great brightness and heard a voice saying about Jesus, "This is my Beloved Son, listen to Him." You and I hear voices every day, clamoring for our attention, asking us to listen to them. But you and I must focus our attention only to hear Jesus. We are His. We forge ahead in our lives, knowing that Jesus is with us. In Deuteronomy 31:8 we read: "it is the Lord who goes before you; he will be with you. He will not fail you; do not fear or be dismayed."

At age 33, Charlotte Elliot had become a hopeless invalid. During this time she became bitter. One evening she was visited by a Swiss minister, Dr. Cesar Malan who was a musician. Ms. Elliot asked him how to become a Christian. His reply was: You pray this prayer: "O God I come to You just as I am." This simple prayer led to her life of faith and the writing of the hymn, "Just As I Am" 14 years later. She also wrote this prayer exemplifying here trust:

Renew my will from day to day;

Blend it with Thine, and take away All now that makes it hard to say, "Thy will be done."

Paul wrote that Christ, being equal with God, set aside His reputation and became obedient. The ultimate act of humility. Why? To come to us in our loneliness, to forgive our sins and to teach us a new way to live and worship.

PRAYER: The same Everlasting Father who cares for us today will take care of us tomorrow and every day. Either He will shield us from suffering, or He will give us strength to bear it. Be at peace, then, and put aside all anxious thoughts and fears. And may God be with each and every one of you.     Amen.

Robert Schiebinger. 

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October 29, 2009

Title: The WALK

Scripture: Mathew 25: 37-40. Then the righteous will answer him, Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it we saw you a stranger and welcomed you or naked and clothed you? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you? And the King will answer them. "Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are my family, you did it to me".

Reflection: Part of a Sermon by John Donne, a 16th century Cleric:
" No man is an island, entire of itself. Every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. If a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as a promontory were, as well as if a manor of thy friends or of thy own were. Every man's death diminishes me because I am involved in mankind. Therefore, never send to know for whom the bell tolls, it tolls for thee"

In the 16th century England the church was a great force. People had their humble dwellings clustered around the church. They walked out to whatever small plot of land that was theirs to till and reap. The bell of the church awakened them, called them to come in from work and warned them of death or danger. (Remember the painting, The Angelus?) The portion of John Donne's sermon I began with was his response to a habit that he saw developing in his people. If the bell tolled only a few times it meant another baby had died. Infant mortality was high so nobody was sent to ask who died. If the bell tolled on and on someone was sent to inquire if there was danger or who had died. Jesus was telling his disciples the same truth, "Inasmuch as you have done this to the least of these my brother, you have done it to me". This lesson is not like that floor cleaner, "Once & Done", it is a daily charge (maybe hourly). It is as important, as difficult today as it was in Jesus' time, as it was in Donne's time. Justice and Mercy have no shelf life, (use by such and such date). They are a daily walk with Him.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, You know I walk on clay feet. You know it is easier for your children to " talk the talk" than to "walk the walk". But we know You will walk with us if we ask. So just for today I pray, walk with me, Lord, show me the Way. Amen

Dot French

 

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October 28, 2009 

SCRIPTURE: The next day as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs. Then he said to the tree, "May no one ever eat fruit from you again." And his disciples heard him say it. Mark 11:12-14

In the morning, as they went along, they saw the fig tree withered from the roots. Peter remembered and said to Jesus, " Rabbi, look! The fig tree you cursed has withered!"   Mark 11:20-21

"I am the true vine and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he trims clean so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me." John 15:1-4

REFLECTION: Today in my daily Bible reading I came across this story of the fig tree. To me it has always seemed to be placed in the wrong area of the Bible and a story that has been hard to understand. However, I did read a couple of things that gave me a better understanding of it and that is what I would like to share with you. Christ's cursing of the fig tree seems senseless until we understand the timetable for picking figs. By Passover time (late March, early April) a crop of nob figs appears, followed by the leaves. Thus, the presence of leaves should have indicated that fruit was already on the tree. By being leafy but fruitless, the tree became the object of Christ's curse. And it can be an object lesson to us.

There is nothing quite as pathetic as a fruitless tree, unless, it is a fruitless Christian, a fruitless family, a fruitless church, or a fruitless nation. Fruit on a fruit tree is a sign of life, vitality, and reproduction. But take away the fruit, and you are left with a tree that is good for very little else. Why? Because it is not producing the very thing for which it was planted.

The barren fig tree that Jesus cursed has been said to represent the nation of Israel, which had all the outward trappings of religion but none of the fruit of true spiritually. Are we like that? Take time to look at John 15:1-8. Trace the four keys that Jesus mentions: "abiding......obeying.......loving........knowing." Don't allow barrenness to be the norm in our life.

PRAYER: Lord, we thank you for your word and all that we can learn from it. It is amazing how timeless your truth still is today. Help us to be fruit bearing for you. Amen

Marilyn (Jones) Albin

 

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October 27, 2009 

SCRIPTURE: Genesis 1:14 And God said, "Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and years. . .

"For everything in season and for every activity under heaven its time:
a time to be born and a time to uproot;
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 for mourning and a time for dancing;
a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them;
a time to embrace and a time to abstain from embracing;
a time to seek and a time to lose;
a time to keep and a time to discard;
a time to tear and a time to mend;
a time for silence
and a time for speech;
a time to love and a time to hate;
a time for war and a time for peace."-Ecclesiastes 3:1-10

"He has made everything to suit its time; moreover He has given making a sense of past and future, but no comprehension of God's work from beginning to end."-Ecclesiastes 3:11

REFLECTION: This fall the girls and I have really noticed how spectacular the changing colors of the leaves has been. Perhaps it is simply because we have had a break from our busy lives and had more time to notice. Perhaps it is because we had a school project that we needed to go to East UNL Campus for that required us to seek out different kinds of trees. In fact, we took a picture of one that was a rich, deep green with a cluster of six or so leaves in the middle that had turned to a deep, golden yellow. What a distinct analogy of the old mixed in with the new, or more directly--things changing.

So it is with life---our spiritual life in particular. God reminds me so much through nature of our ever-changing world especially as the seasons change. Yet, He also reminds me of His constant, steadfast presence throughout each of the seasons. When we first come to know Jesus, it reminds me of budding trees and tulips and crocus pushing their way through the dark, frozen ground. I stand back in awe marveling at actually being able to see the work of Christ come alive within a person's heart and soul changing them forever.

The summertime reminds me of the joy and fun a Christian can have in their walk with God. The fall reminds me of a time of change that most of us go through at some point with our faith. This might be in the form of our faith deepening through Bible Studies, Sunday Sermons, or Youth Groups. It might also be in the form of questioning your faith and even the existence or presence of God when tragic things happen that are beyond our understanding.

Finally, as we mature spiritually as well as chronologically, I think God helps us to prepare for our eternal rests, the same as nature does in the winter. But the beauty of it all, for those that believe, is that it doesn't matter which side of Heaven or Earth you are on....for we can take great comfort in knowing the season's will endure...the same as God's love for us.

PRAYER: Father, thank you so much for giving us the simple beauty we can find in your pictures of nature. Thank you for teaching us and reassuring us that although our faith and spiritual walk throughout our own lives may change, you will always welcome us back to continue the journey. Amen.

Sue Ann Vice 

 

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October 26, 2009

TITLE: Does Suffering help Us Know God Better?

SCRIPTURE: Romans 5:3. We also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance.

REFLECTION: In the world today there is a veritable babble of voices crying for many things. Most of those voices are calling for LOVE. Without love life becomes a barren desert. Love is always hopeful and patient, and never fails.

Jesus has love for us. This love should compel us to share this love with others. God would have His children share this Christ­ian love with all others. He wants us to tell others about His vast love and power. It is His will that all of us should become a part of the great fellowship of believers, and share in His mercy and love. Let us all come, see, go, tell.

We all at one time or another have played with shadow pictures. Holding our hands and fingers in various ways, we have been able to make interesting figures and shadows on the wall. But one must be standing in the LIGHT in order that there shall be a shadow. So, those who love the Lord must be standing in the LIGHT of His presence to reflect His love.

I am sure all of us have heard the story told of "one set of foot prints in the sand." A very good Christian died and in heaven was visiting with Jesus. Jesus said to this Christian, "My son you are here in heaven. Your life, though it was rough at times is ended." The man replied, "yes Lord, you helped me through many rough spots, however, as I look back at these hard times, you were not there, there was only one set of foot prints in the sand. Jesus replied, "My child that was when I was carrying you."

WHEN JESUS hung on the cross, with His arms stretched out in pain and in love, His love was extended to ALL people, no matter who we are, how we look, color of our skin, He plays no favorites. We are all His favorite children. He cares for each one.

God is just as concerned about us today as when He made us. Constantly He is trying to persuade us that following His plan will bring the more abundant life. Some think that He wound up the world like an alarm clock and has gone off to let it run by itself. Nothing could be further from the truth. 

An unknown writer's inspiring words should pace us: "I shall pass through this world but once. Any good, therefore, that I can do, let me do it now, for I shall not pass this way again." Love never fails. Love will never be left behind, for it goes with us into the gardens of eternity. Truly, God is love.

Meanwhile these three remain, faith, hope and love, but the greatest of these is LOVE. Let us remember what Jesus said, "Today you looked so sad, so alone. It makes my heart ache be­cause I understand. My friends let me down and hurt me many times too, but I love you. We will spend eternity together in Heaven. My Father wants to help too. He's that way you know.  Just call me, ask me, talk to me. It is your decision. I have chosen you and because of that I will wait, because I love you."

PRAYER: Gracious God, I thank Thee for the blessings of Thy word through which new strength and comfort have come to me today. Keep me in Your care and help me daily to rejoice in forgiveness of my sins and in the new life and salvation which I have in thee. Amen.

Bob Schiebinger.

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October 25, 2009

TITLE: Put your Money where Your Heart Is

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 6: 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. RVS

REFLECTION: "Put your money where your mouth is". We have heard and perhaps used this phrase. We generally understand this to mean don't just talk about it do something. As we approach Stewardship Sunday in a couple weeks, I was thinking about this passage of scripture and it occurred to me that it could be expressed in reverse.

Through God's love for us and our love of God we are called to share our treasure as our hearts direct us. Let us prayerfully consider all the fine works of education, mission, service and music provided at Eastridge church and support these programs.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, as you have loved us, let us commit to putting our treasures where our hearts are, in you. In Jesus name. Amen

Kathy Kuehn 

 

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October 24, 2009

TITLE: LOOK TO GOD IN TROUBLE

SCRIPTURE: Romans 8:28-30. "We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, those whom he has called according to his purpose. Those whom God had already chosen he also set apart to become like his Son, so that the Son would be the first among many brothers. And so those whom God set apart, he called, he put right with himself, and he shared his glory."

REFLECTION: This is one of the most misquoted and misunderstood passages in the Bible. God isn't telling us here that everything will work out the way we want it to. Nor is he saying that there is going to be a happy ending for all our problems. The world is full of unhappy endings. We live in a fallen world.

But, even in this fallen world, we know that God is in control of our universe, and we know that God loves us.

God's plan for our lives includes all the things that happen to us--including our mistakes, our sins, and our hurts. It includes illness, debt, disasters, divorce, and death of a loved one. God can bring good out of the worst evil. He did it for his own son, who died on the cross, and then rose again on the third day.

When you read the Old Testament, you are struck by the flaws in God's chosen people. They follow his way for awhile and then drift away and begin worshipping idols, breaking his laws, not keeping the temple holy. One by one, we see them disappointing God, and falling away. Even when we look at the lineage of Christ, through David, we see people who sinned--a lot.

Rick Warren says, "We are like jewels, shaped with the hammer and chisel of adversity. If a jeweler's hammer isn't strong enough to chip on our rough edges, God will use a sledgehammer. If we're really stubborn, he uses a jackhammer. He will use whatever it takes. Every problem is a character-building opportunity, and the more difficult it is, the greater the potential for building spiritual muscle and moral fiber. Paul said, 'We know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character.' What happens outwardly in your life is not as important as what happens inside you. Your circumstances are temporary, but character will last forever."

We are works in progress. As the old hymn says, "Have thine own way, Lord. Have thine own way. Thou art the potter, I am the clay."

PRAYER: Dear God, We thank you so much for your guiding hand in our lives. We know we have a way to go to become what you want us to be. Give us the strength and moral fiber to keep striving to become like your son, Jesus Christ. Amen

Gerry Draney

 

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October 23, 2009

TITLE: The Fascinating Man of Ezra who Fasted

SCRIPTURE:: Ezra 7:6b He was a teacher well versed in the Law of Moses, which the LORD, the God of Israel, had given. The king had granted him everything he asked, (including about $5 million dollars of gold and silver) for the hand of the LORD his God was on him. Some of the Israelites, including priests, Levites, singers, gatekeepers and temple servants, also came up to Jerusalem in the seventh year of King Artaxerxes.

Ezra 8:21 There, by the Ahava Canal, I (Ezra) proclaimed a fast, so that we might humble ourselves before our God and ask him for a safe journey for us and our children, with all our possessions.

REFLECTION: A Westminster Bible class sent me the material on Ezra which I was to speak on last Sunday. I didn't know much about Ezra. After studying, I came to realize there was much to teach from Ezra's life. Ezra fasted before his very important voyage back to Jerusalem to bring the people back to faith in God. He chose fasting and prayer to rely on for their safety rather than soldiers.

Have you fasted for a spiritual purpose? At one point in my life two people told me they were fasting and praying for me. This touched me deeply. I have since fasted for others. The closeness this brought me to Jesus, who fasted also, is unmatched.

PRAYER: Dear LORD, forgive us for ignoring one of Christ's greatest teachings. Help us to learn how to use fasting in this year of 2009 and receive the blessings it gives.

Sandra Hilsabec 

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October 22, 2009

TITLE:  "God is our Refuge and Strength"

SCRIPTURE:  "God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble.  Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea."  Psalm 46: 1-2 (NIV) 

REFLECTION:  This is one of my favorite verses of the Bible because it calms all of our fears regardless of how large or small they are as well as the origin of our fearful attitude.  When we have sickness in our family, when one of our family members is traveling to another country, when we have taken on more work than we can reasonably accomplish, we always know that God is guiding us and helping us to overcome our fears.

During this past summer, we visited my family in North Carolina.  Some family members wanted to travel deep into the mountains where they had heard there were gorgeous gems to be found.  The road to reach the gem mine was so steep and filled with curves that we felt we were truly traveling in a spiral, round and round the mountains with no place to stop by the side of the road because the side of the road was a mountainous, steep valley where you could not see floor of the valley.  I became fearful when it began to rain, the sun set across the mountains and darkness began to form.  Then, I thought how God had made the beautiful mountains and valleys so that we could enjoy them.  God was truly our refuge and strength as we drove through the darkness and rain out of the mountainous country.

A friend told me recently of her fear of having serious surgery, however, she quickly stated that she knew in her heart that God would be with her throughout the entire surgery and recovery.  She said what we all know, that it is so easy to forget that God is with us and to think that we have to be independent and take care of everything ourselves.  However, if we stop, take a deep breath, and pray for God's guidance, we know that everything will be fine, for indeed, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble."

PRAYER:  Our Heavenly Father, help us to always know that you are our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble regardless of the situation in which we find ourselves.  Be with us, guide us, hold us and direct our every thought, word, and deed to your glory.  In Your name we pray.  Amen.

 Linda Douglas

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October 21, 2009

TITLE: The Call of Jeremiah

SCRIPTURE: Jeremiah 1:6, "Ah, Lord God! Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth."

REFLECTION:  have recently encouraged the adult Sunday School class to read a book entitled Run with the Horses: The Quest for Life at Its Best, written by the translator of The Message, Eugene Peterson.  Run with the Horses is an exploration of the prophet Jeremiah's life and a reflection upon his message that simultaneously draws the reader into the prophet's expansive, God-centered world and draws us out of our ever shrinking, Me-centered lives. Peterson begins his chapter on "the call of Jeremiah" with a passage from J.R.R. Tolkien's, Fellowship of the Ring.

 "I am not made for perilous quests," cried Frodo. I wish I had never seen the Ring! Why did it come to me? Why was I chosen?"

"Such questions cannot be answered," said Gandalf. "You may be sure that it was not for any merit that others do not possess; not for power or wisdom, at any rate. But you have been chosen and you must therefore use such strength and heart and wits as you have."

It's no secret that most of us, like Frodo, have a tendency to feel small, especially when we're called to do something big.  I don't know how many times I've said to God, "Are you sure you really want ME to do this (whatever "this" is)? Don't you want someone more qualified, more experienced, more confident?" It has taken me awhile to realize that my qualifications, experience, and confidence, although necessary to me, aren't as important to God. God is interested in something far greater than my resume.

Ultimately, what matters to God is not my ability to perform, but my willingness to be transformed. Jeremiah learned this lesson over and over again. He was ignored, opposed and persecuted throughout his life. If the crowd was allowed to grade his performance he would get a unanimous F.  But Jeremiah's primary concern wasn't with the crowd. It was with God. It was God who deemed him qualified. It was God who gave him experience. It was in God that Jeremiah found his confidence.

So, next time you feel the call of God pressing upon your heart, look, not to your resume, but to the God who is calling your name. Jeremiah and Frodo did it, so can you.

PRAYER: Lord, may we learn to live as Jeremiah lived. Amen.

NOTE: If you would like a copy of Run with Horses I still have several available. Optional contribution: $6.

JP Carlson 

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October 20, 2009

Title: God's Amazing Reach

Scripture: Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the skies. Palm 36:5

Reflection: God's love reaches to the heavens and to all of us on earth who trust in him. And He has amazing ways of working through us to reach other people. Here's one example.

In the spring of 2008, Jan, a co-worker, sent out a prayer request to several people in the office. In Pennsylvania, a car had run up over a curb and struck three pedestrians. One of them was Jan's daughter, who had fairly minor injuries. But Christie sustained serious injuries to both legs and eventually had to have one leg amputated. The accident occurred just one month before Christie was to be married, and the wedding had to be postponed. I forwarded Jan's prayer request to the Eastridge prayer chain, and it was sent to everyone on the e-mail prayer list.

Georgia Lambert read the prayer request, and she called and asked for Christie's contact information. Georgia had a friend who had a leg amputated and still went dancing with her husband. Georgia wanted to share with Christie that there was hope. I got Christie's address from Jan, and Georgia wrote to her. They struck up a friendship through their communications.

Fast forward to spring 2009. Jan's daughter was getting married in Lincoln, and Christie and her fiancé, Rich, were in town for the wedding. They were driving around to try to find the house Rich's parents had lived in at one time, and they passed Van Dorn Street. Christie recognized that as the street Georgia lived on, and she and Rich found Georgia's residence. They walked in, knocked on the door to Georgia's room, and were able to meet in person. Georgia and Christie embraced. Georgia called to tell me the story. And so did Jan.

Christie and Rich were married September 27 in New Hope, Pennsylvania. She and Georgia have stayed in touch, and Georgia sent me a link to their wedding website. Christie is doing well. Jan shared with me that Christie was not a member of a church prior to her accident, but she was grateful for all the prayers she received from people all over the country.

It appears that Christie has felt the reach of God's love through a number of people, including Georgia. Who would have ever imagined that a young woman in Pennsylvania could become friends with a woman in a retirement home in Lincoln, Nebraska? Christie and Georgia had nothing in common, but God reached out and brought them together. He truly is amazing!

Prayer: Dear Lord, Your love for us is awesome and sometimes unbelievable. That you would take steps to ensure we all know we are loved and cared for, even by strangers, is remarkable. We pray that you would help us to demonstrate our faithfulness to you by being open to your word.

Robin Hadfield 

 

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October 19, 2009

TITLE:  "Called to Serve"

SCRIPTURE: "Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain. . . . --John 15:16.

"Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I [Paul] was not disobedient to the heavenly vision." --Acts 26:19.

MEDITATION: When we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, we make a commitment to serve him in whatever capacity he chooses-teacher, realtor, fireman, bus driver, farmer, homemaker-pastor, elder, Sunday school teacher, choir member, hand bell ringer, usher. He fills all of the necessary slots of his kingdom according to his plan, each of given a position important to the success of the whole, and, through his Scripture, he tells us to get to work, promising to be with us in every moment, giving us strength, guidance, and comfort.

Sometimes, when the going gets tough or we feel appreciated, it is easy to question whether we are in the right slot. At those times, we need to read his Word and be in prayer. If you need to pursue another "walk" or your job description needs to be revised, he'll let you know. And when your path is clear, he'll give you a little shove to get you on your way again.

PRAYER: Our Father, When we lose our way or have doubts as to what your will for our lives is, speak to us and give us inspiration that our service to you might be fruitful and give glory to your holy name. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Keith M. Heim 

 

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October 18, 2009

Title:  Temptation

Scripture:   And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Matthew 6:13 

Reflections: Every Sunday during worship time we all say the Lord's Prayer together.  Some of us are complex thinkers and can grasp a concept by simply reading it.  Others are visual learners and must see the object of consideration or tie it literally into something that can be visualized. 

Temptation is something we all live with everyday.  The Lord pulls us in one direction but we tend to want to go the other way.  The words of the hymn Solid Rock that Edward Mote wrote in 1834 has lines in it that create a great visual for those of us that are literal learners. 

      On Christ the solid Rock I stand

     All other ground is sinking sand;

      All other ground is sinking sand.

 

Temptation - sinking sand.  Indeed, this creates a perfect visual.  Our solid rock is God.  What a comfort this is when we are feeling adrift and looking for answers.  We need to not look inward but upward for the help that has been there all the time, but we have forgotten to look.  There is no temptation too strong that God cannot help us with and point us back in the direction of the way He would have us go.    

Prayer: Help us, oh God, to build our lives on a foundation of Solid Rock and avoid the pit falls and unbalance of sinking sand.   Amen 

Mary Lienemann     

 

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October 17, 2009

Scripture: But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.

Reflection: I have always felt uncomfortable with the doctrine of a chosen people-at least on the level that a nation or group is favored by God over others. How bizarre to hear opposing armies engaged in a terrible war proclaim that, "God is with us." Such a belief is also only a step away from discriminatory actions and unwarranted feelings of superiority. During Christ's ministry he emphasized the significance and value of every individual (even sinners) and that seems difficult to reconcile with an appointed, select group. If we elect to be among that varied group who accept Jesus, perhaps we can be the "choosing" rather than the chosen people.

Prayer: God of all peoples, free us from any feelings that we have the "inside track" to your favor. Open us to your fairness, love and compassion and help us to accept an equal, rather than a superior, status with our fellow man.

V.T. Miller

 

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October 16, 2009

TITLE:  Protection for the Simple Hearted

SCRIPTURE: The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.  The Lord protects the simple hearted; when I was in great need, he saved me.  Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the Lord has been good to you.  Psalm 116:5-7

REFLECTION:  The phrase, "The Lord protects the simple hearted" caught my attention.  At first I read it in my mind as "...the simple minded..." and thought, yes, that's me at times.  I know God protects us when we are not thinking straight or not thinking past the moment, but upon a closer look, I think "simple hearted" refers to something else. 

The sixth Beatitude (Matthew 5:8) reads, "Blessed are the pure in heart for they will see God."  As I think on it, 'simple hearted' describes a quiet, untroubled, and uncluttered heart, one that is focused on what is essential--God.  Our minds and hearts are normally so full with a constant stream of thoughts and feelings.  Coming into God's graciousness and compassion is what clears away the turmoil and gives us the purity of heart to see God clearly.  This simplicity of heart needs constant tending or care.  Although it does not come naturally to us, by God's grace and our desire, it can become a way of life.

PRAYER: Dear Father, God, I long to see you.  I long to have a simple heart that rests in you.  I pray you would give this blessing to all who seek you.  Please purify our hearts so we can see and follow your ways.

 Angie Berkebile

 

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October 15, 2009

SCRIPTURE:  But concerning Israel he says, "All day long I have held out my hands to a disobedient and obstinate people".  Romans: 10:21

REFLECTION: No one is perfect. I know (thanks to 10 brothers and sisters) that I am far from perfect in any way. But nevertheless, I felt that my youngest brother was as close to being perfect as possible. He carried me on his shoulders, he taught me about the world, he loved me; he took my part when I needed a helping hand. So to me, he was perfect.

But, of course, he was not perfect for later I found he had left college without finishing his degree (nearly a criminal offense in our family), he smoked and in his thirties, he divorced his first wife.

But our father God and his son are perfect. (Matthew 5:48 Be perfect therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.) So, we should strive for the best in spite of all kinds of problems or barriers in our way.

PRAYER: Help us to strive toward a better life in each and every day of our living. Help us to be as you would like us to be.

Carolyn F. Olsen

 

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October 14, 2009

TITLE:  Who Are You Following? 

SCRIPTURE:  I will be with you. Exodus 3:12 

REFLECTION : Sometimes we clearly feel God with us.  Sometimes, with trembling voice, we are asking, "Are you there, God?"  Life seems to be a series of certainties and uncertainties, of good days and bad days.  It brings me comfort to know that God is there with me.  I know I have some life lessons behind me, good and bad, some more life lessons ahead of me, good and bad.  But I have a Savior beside me. 

As Christians, we have to use the gifts God left for us.  He modeled prayer, fellowship with believers, reaching out to non-believers and always following God.  We can find Him in scripture. 

Coming home from school one afternoon, I was in one of the middle lanes going south on 9^th Street from downtown.  The lanes on the left eventually merge with traffic heading east while the far right lane will merge with traffic heading west.  To get home I need to stay in one of the middle southbound lanes.  But on this particular afternoon, I noticed the vehicle in front of me was a pickup truck with the tailgate down.  In the truck bed was a Porta Potty secured by two straps. It was kind of bouncing around a bit.  I am sure it was a clean Porta Potty headed to its next destination of importance.  However, it occurred to me, given the way my life goes sometimes, this could be a stinky life lesson that I would love to avoid.  A lane change seemed like a good idea. 

Who are you following?  Are you in a safe place?  Would a lane change be a smart move for you?  We can never navigate our lives to certain faultless or uncompromised places all of the time.  In fact some of our stinky life lessons helped make us who we are today.  You might be able to see some good and bad from each lesson.   We are able to change lanes if we want to and move to a clearer view of Jesus.  Maybe we just need to get out from behind the trouble we have been following. Make a straight path toward Jesus.  Ask God for a mentor to follow, read His word, pray and start following people that do not have their tail gate down with a Porta Potty just dangling there. 

PRAYER:  Heavenly Father, I know that no matter what lane I am in, You are there, with me.  If I merge my life in the direction You are pointing I can navigate through anything.  Keep my path clear. Guide and protect me through this day.  Lord, if I need a Christian mentor, would you put one in my path, and Lord, if you want me to lead someone, let me only lead them closer to you!  Amen

Kathy Rangel

 

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October 13, 2009

SCRIPTUJRE:  "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5)

REFLECTION:   As I was driving around town the other day, I noticed the signage out front of one of the local churches.  It asked a very important question, "Is God your co-pilot?"  I thought about it off and on for the next few days.  I am aware that God has a "plan" for all of us.

When we are younger, I think that parts of His plan are pointed out to us in the opportunities we are given to use our talents.  I think the encouragement we receive from others may lead us to explore other avenues to see if this is perhaps, God's "calling for us". 

As we grow older, I think we prayerfully consider what God would want us to do in a situation more often than when we are younger.  However, depending on the significance of the change the event will bring to our lives as well as how much time we have given God to answer us prior to the event taking place, forces us at times to use our own best judgment at the time under the pretense this is a part of God's "plan" for us.  We may ask God but we don't always wait for His answer.

I overheard a woman in a restaurant the other day on her cell phone say, "It's like we are trying to do something that is not in God's plan".  I wondered how many other people ever really stopped and thought that same thing...much less said those words aloud.  I am not sure I have.  Instead, when faced with a major decision I tend to think that God just hasn't answered my prayers yet or I must be overlooking what He said and I proceed with my own best judgment and lean on my own understanding.  I don't think it ever occurred to me to look at something as not being in God's plan and that maybe His silence was the answer.

I drove the same way the other day, except I could finally read the other side of the sign.  I wish I would have read it and tried it years ago... It said, "If God is your co-pilot---swap seats." 

PRAYER: Lord, thank you so much for having a "plan" specifically and uniquely made for me.  Please give me the strength to trust in you with all of my heart, the wisdom to not rely on my own understanding, the patience to wait for your guidance and the courage to switch seats with you!  Amen.

Sue Ann Vice

 

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October 12, 2009

TITLE: Missions

SCRIPTURE: I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has give me - the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. Acts 20:23-24

REFLECTION: Paul was one of the great missionaries of all time. He gave his life spreading God's word. God still calls us today to spread his word through sharing, and actions and deeds, but we don't necessarily need to give our lives as Paul did, a fact for which I am quite grateful.

The past few weeks we here at Eastridge have had the chance to witness missions testifying to the gospel of God's grace. Not only have many of us witnessed the mission work, we have also participated. The mission work also came in the form of fellowship - what better kind of mission work is there than fun mission work?! There has been a barbeque with lots of good food, many people donated items to the Silent Auction, others bought things at the Silent Auction (shopping as mission work - I like that idea!).

Today many of the youth and adults walked the neighborhoods around Eastridge collecting for the Friendship home. It was a chilly afternoon, but spirits were high and the hot chocolate afterwards warmed the spirit.

We listened in church to the missionary from Africa, and all the wonderful things she has done. As she said, she could not have done it without assistance and prayers from churches like Eastridge.

We should continue the work we have been doing here at Eastridge, and continue testifying to the gospel of God's grace. There will be many more opportunities coming in the new few months. With Christmas, there are many opportunities to testify and serve Christ. Some of them can be lots of fun, others may take a little more work. If we just keep our minds and hearts open, we can enjoy the task of witnessing for Christ while we do it!

PRAYER: Dear Lord, please open our hearts to all the opportunities you present to us to witness for you! Help us to make the most of those opportunities! Amen.

Laurie Schlitt

 

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October 11, 2009

SCRIPTURE: Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it-he will be blessed in what he does. James 1: 22-25

REFLECTION:  When I was learning to plan an instrument, if I had just gone to class and listened to the teacher, but didn't pick up my saxophone, I would never had been able to make music with the band.  When I took Driver's Ed we learned the material and practiced on the simulator (fortunately), but I had to get behind the wheel of the car in order to drive somewhere.  When I was in college learning to be a nurse my instructors taught us in the classroom, practiced with us in the Lab, and then we needed to go to the hospital to practice our skills with real if we were to help care for people.  In all these things, it was never enough to just read about something.  In all three instances I had to get out and do it in order to make it effective.

James tells us that our faith is like this too.  We can certainly call ourselves Christians when we confess Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior but in order to truly live the Christian life, in order to get the good out of our "lessons" we're going to need to take the show on the road.   

PRAYER:  Jesus, sometimes the things you taught us are just so much easier to read about than to do.  But you showed us with your life that the work isn't done with what's in our head - it's done with our hands and our mouths and our bodies.  We can't just hear about the Good News.  We need to act on it and share it in order for the world to know that you are God and for us to receive the blessing that comes from working for you.  Amen

Lori Snyder-Sloan

 

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October 10, 2009

Theme: Dancing with God

Scripture: Psalm 30:11-12: You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy that my heart may sing to you and not be silent.

Psalm 149:3-4: Let them praise God's name with dancing and make music to Him with tambourine and harp for the Lord takes delight in His people; he crowns the humble with salvation.

 Luke 15: 20: So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him: he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. (Parable of the Prodigal Son)

Reflection: One of my favorite TV shows is "Dancing with the Stars". As I watch from week to week, it amazes me to see the improvement each celebrity exhibits as he or she becomes more confident in themselves and their ability to execute the dance with their professional dance partner. Some celebrities possess a natural ability to dance while others show more awkwardness. But even the most awkward celebrity shows progress as their professional dance partner guides and leads them through the steps during their daily practices in an attempt to put their assigned dance performance together.

As I was watching the first episode of this season's "Dancing", I began to see my life as a dance with God. At times, it has been as smooth and graceful as a Viennese Waltz while at other times it has been exuberant and joyful like the Lindy Hop or Jive. Still at other times, I have allowed my anger and haughtiness towards God to resemble the Paso Doble or take the form of the freestyle dance when I wanted to throw out all the rules and do things "my way". Through the years, I've even allowed myself to drift away from God's arms, all the time knowing, God's arms would be open wide and ready to accept me back into His loving and guiding embrace at a moments notice.

Prayer:  Dear God: Thank you for being my dance partner in life and, ultimately, in death. Open my heart to feel your guiding hand each day as we move together through our ups and downs and joys and sorrows. May my trust in you increase daily knowing you have a plan for my life if I just will take notice and feel your gentle touch.  Amen

Patty Niemann 

 

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October 9, 2009

 

The LORD of the Dance

I will build you up again, O virgin Israel, and you shall be rebuilt. Again you shall adorn yourself with jingles, and go forth with the merry throng of dancers. Jeremiah 31:4 (NEB)

A few years ago I read of the death of the author of the song Lord of the Dance. It has always been one of my favorite religious songs from the Sixties, when you could hear it at almost every campus ministry event. I knew the melody was the famous Shaker hymn Simple Gifts, but I guess I had thought that the lyrics were some folk poem, or "traditional", as they say. But these lyrics were composed in 1963 by British songwriter Sydney Carter, described in his obituary as a "folk poet, a holy skeptic and an iconoclastic theologian".

The image of Jesus in Carter's song is certainly unconventional. It describes a Christ who spends his entire ministry on earth dancing, and inviting the scribes and pharisees and the disciples to join him in this dance. In the refrain all of us are invited to participate...

Dance, then, wherever you may be,
I am the Lord of the Dance, said he,
And I'll lead you all, wherever you may be,
And I'll lead you all in the Dance, said he.

We read in fourth chapter of II Samuel how David danced before the Lord "with all his might". Dancing is a spiritual activity: it takes over our mind as well as our body, and while it demands concentration, it is an ecstatic experience. Carter saw the dance as a metaphor for life. He wrote that he saw Christ as "the incarnation of the piper who is calling us. He dances that shape and pattern which is at the heart of our reality".

Carter's obituary included this verse he composed years earlier as an epitaph:
Dancing is all that I can ever trust,
The dance is all I am, the rest is dust.
I will believe my bones and live by what
Will go on dancing when my bones are not.

Prayer: O God of Heaven and Earth, give us the joy and the strength to pass through this life singing and dancing the life and words of Jesus.
Bill Wehrbein

 

 

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October 8, 2009

 

TITLE: GOD IS MY STRENGTH

SCRIPTURE: The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still. Exodus 14:14

I will sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted....The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him. Exodus 15:1&2

REFLECTION: It must have seemed impossible to the Israelites to leave their Egyptian captors and flee to an unknown destination. God's word gave them courage over and over through Moses and his successors.

As I have been working to make my body stronger, I have become discouraged at times. I do not believe the first verse means I must not work. It is my time table in my mind that needs to be still and wait upon the Lord. Perhaps it is my expectation that needs to rest and wait on His will. Patience is a lesson I seem to need over and over. This reassurance that God will fight for me is comforting.

I will sing to the Lord because he is my strength. I will continue to ask for guidance and follow. Through Jesus I can accomplish all He wants me to do.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, Thank you for your promise of strength and salvation. Forgive my despair and fill me with your powerful Holy Spirit that I might be a better servant for you. In Jesus' name, Amen

Carolyn Fetterley

 

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October 7, 2009

SCRIPTURE: Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher, vanity of vanities! All is vanity. What does man gain by all the toil at which he toils under the sun? A generation goes, and a generation comes, but the earth remains for ever. The sun rises and the sun goes down, and hastens to the place where it rises. The wind blows to the south, and goes round to the north; round and round goes the wind, and on its circuits the wind returns. All streams run to the sea, but the sea is not full; to the place where the streams flow, there they flow again, All things are full of weariness; a man cannot utter it; the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing. What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done; and there is nothing new under the sun. Ecclesiastes: 1: 2-9

 

REFLECTION: Lately I have pondered if I personally ever make a difference in my patient's lives. I work in a rehabilitation hospital so my patients are getting physically and cognitively stronger on a day by day basis. It is easy to see that physical therapy helps patients walk and occupational therapy helps patients with arm and hand movements. Our speech therapists work on helping the patient to talk, swallow, think, remember, and function on that higher level that we all just take for granted. In this very specialized team, why is the social worker important? Like the writer of Ecclesiastes, I think that there is nothing new under the sun. I work hard and just keep going on day by day. About this time, several former patients came to my doorway to say hello. A little boy with a head injury remembers when we sang together when he was tired after a full day of therapy. A gentleman who I worked with several years ago stops by for a consultation on community resources. A lady visits to say thank you for helping extend her resources so she received the help for her depression on the anniversary of her husband's death.

Just when I think my work really doesn't matter, God intervenes and lets me know that all of our efforts are important. God cares about what I do every day. I may not ever know the difference I make in someone's life, but God knows. I believe God strategically positions us in the world to make it a better place. Although the "Preacher" in Ecclesiastes sounds depressed and "stuck", there is comfort in knowing that God is eternal and we are part of his never-ending plan.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for your care of us as individuals. Thank you that we have a wide variety of strengths and abilities. Thank you for reminding us that all good things come from you, your mercy and goodness are never ending. Amen

Nancy Hall

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October 6, 2009

TITLE: The "greatest" text

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

REFLECTION:  We see the reference on placards held up at sporting events on TV. It is the first verse that Bible translators put into another language or that a child is encouraged to memorize.  There are numerous hymn and chorus versions.  Today's EYOB New Testament reading includes what is, undoubtedly, the most familiar text in all of Scripture--John 3:16.  When a saying, a proverb--or a scripture text--is very familiar, it can lose its impact on our hearts and minds-the "familiarity breeds contempt" effect.  I found the following almost word for word analysis of the profound truths in this precious verse a good anecdote for the familiar effect:

             GOD                                       the greatest Lover

            so loved                                   the greatest degree

            the world                                 the greatest company

            that He gave                            the greatest act

            His one and only Son              the greatest gift

            that whoever                           the greatest opportunity

            believes                                   the greatest simplicity

            in Him                                     the greatest attraction

            shall not perish                        the greatest promise

            but                                           the greatest difference

            have                                         the greatest certainty

            eternal life                               the greatest possession           

PRAYER: Dear Lord, Thank you for your greatest Gift-the gift of salvation purchased by the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ.  I pray that I may more fully appreciate your great love in sending your beloved Son.  Amen

Judy Heaston 

 

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October 5, 2009

 

TITLE: Going Through the Motions

SCRIPTURES:
I spread out my hands to you; I search for you like a parched land. Answer me quickly, Lord; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. Psalm 143:6-7 (TNIV)

Draw close to God, and God will draw close to you. James 4:8 (NLT)

"When you come looking for me, you'll find me.
Yes, when you get serious about finding me and want it more than anything else, I'll make sure you won't be disappointed." Jeremiah 29:13-14 (The Message)

REFLECTION:
Where are you God? I know you're there...I just can't feel you. This season of spiritual dryness I've been going through is difficult. I try to stay somewhat involved at church, read the Bible occasionally and pray a little, but my heart's not in it 100%. I'm doing things more out of duty than love for God. (Let me tell you, it's hard to write a devotion when our relationship is like this.)

I can relate to what Matthew West says in the song, "The Motions":
...just okay is not enough
help me fight through the nothingness of life
I don't wanna go through the motions
I don't wanna go one more day
without your all consuming passion inside of me
I don't wanna spend my whole life asking,
"What if I had given everything,
instead of going through the motions?"

I miss that place of fellowship with God...yet I just can't seem to get there. It could be that God is testing my faith-to see if I will continue to love, trust, obey and worship him, even when I don't feel his presence. It could also be that our relationship is suffering because of sins that need to be confessed. Whatever the reason, I know it's going to take more of an effort on my part.

The time to act is now. I'm starting to see the negative effects of "going through the motions". I suspect my children, who look to me for spiritual direction, may be following my example-their relationships with God seem to lack the passion they once had. Also, unfortunately, this apathetic attitude has trickled into some of my other relationships. And I have to wonder how many opportunities for service I may be missing as well.

Rick Warren says in The Purpose Driven Life, "I'm as close to God as I choose to be." I wish it was that easy, though. Something's holding me back. I want to "draw close", but I guess I don't want it bad enough. I need to reignite my passion for God. Rick Warren suggests, "Start asking God to give it to you and keep on asking until you have it. Pray this throughout your day: ‘Dear Jesus, more than anything else, I want to get to know you intimately.'" I don't know how my heart could have forgotten how awesome that place of fellowship with God is, but I pray that it remembers soon.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, forgive me for "going through the motions" and not seeking a more intimate relationship with you. Help me find the desire to do whatever it takes to restore our relationship. And thank you for faithfully standing by me even when my heart is distant. Amen.

By: Sharon Irvin

 

 

 

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October 4, 2009

Topic: Seasons of our Lives

Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot.

Reflection: It's autumn in Nebraska. In the Midwest, we experience each season. Just as there are seasons for weather and landscape, there are seasons of our lives.

"A time to be born" relates to the Spring of our lives. We are young and impressionable. Our parents, mentors and others help build our character. Our teachers help us acquire knowledge and skills. Our faith may be the seed which has yet to be planted, but already has some life.

"A time to plant" belongs to the Summer of our lives. Just as farmers and gardeners plant seeds to grow into food, we use what we gained in our youth to be successful and productive as adults. We get out of school, get jobs, and often start a family. The seeds of our faith, which are planted in the late spring or early summer, grow and if nurtured through bible study and fellowship with the body of Christ, become stronger each day.

"A time to uproot" is right now. Harvest time comes in the Autumn of life. We draw on the resources we planted, just as we harvest the vegetables and crops. While the sharing of our faith begins in the summer, it really expands in the Autumn of our life when our faith is more developed and ripe.

"A time to die" corresponds with winter, when our gardens die and leaves die and fall from trees. At the end of the winter of our lives, we have reached the end of the road-the path that leads to eternal life. Depending on the faith that begins in Spring, is developed in Summer and is harvested in Autumn, believers will enjoy the place which Jesus went before us to prepare. While we may not eagerly await the cold weather of winter, we eagerly await the reward offered to Christians.

Prayer: Thank you for the seasons on our planet, Lord, and the seasons of our lives. Thank you for giving us the new life in our gardens and fields and for the new life in our souls. Help us to be comfortable in each season, grow our faith, and share the bountiful harvest. Amen.

Cindy Thomson

 

 

 

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October 3, 2009

 

TITLE: A Mustard Seed
SCRIPTURE: Luke 8: 5 and 8. "A sower went out to sow his seed; ....And some fell into good soil and grew, and yielded a hundredfold."
REFLECTIONS:
The talk this week has been about Greg Mortensen. Some have said, "What did he add from his book Three Cups of Tea?" Others said, "Educating girls is really important if you want to change a community." I heard, "Can you believe one person can make such a difference?" The quotes could go on and on, but what I heard most forcefully was "It is important to serve."

Mortensen praised the students at Union College for the extra-ordinary services they do here and elsewhere. He praised Lincoln Public Schools for the service requirement for high school graduation. Mortensen probably didn't know that City Impact has a large crew of volunteers that help first graders at Elliott School learn to read. But the thing that struck me was Mortensen's challenge to each of us to do something small - we don't have to do something big. It is the multitude of small services that make a difference.

So I began to ask myself what are some small things that make a difference. Perhaps some of these:
• Civility in a tense situation
• A kind word to someone
• A telephone call
• A hug to someone who is having a bad day
• A plate of cookies to a friend
• A visit to a sick friend
• Patience at the stop sign
• A friendly voice at the check-out stand
• A word of support for marginalized people
Would these help our community be better and stronger?

PRAYER: Lord, thank you for Greg Mortensen and the work he is doing. Thank you for the schools which include girls in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Help us to respond to Mortensen's challenge to be of service to others. Help us to find small ways to make this a better world. Amen

 

 

 

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October 2, 2009

 

TITLE: BELIEVER OR DISCIPLE?

 

SCRIPTURE:  And he saith unto them, "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." And they straightaway left their nets, and followed Him. MATTHEW 4:19-20 -(KJV)

 

REFLECTION: Sharing one's faith can sometimes be a dicey proposition. One never knows if one's words will be welcomed or considered politically incorrect in our society today. However, since writing my first devotional message nearly 10 years ago, I have found that people like to ask me questions about it i.e., How did I get started? Is it difficult to do? How often do I write, etc.? The most often asked question is "Where do you get your ideas?"

Sometimes these discussions take place in some rather interesting surroundings. One such situation is the beauty shop that I patronize. Frequently, I meet a woman there who is a newly converted Christian. Our visiting about writing has changed to talking about Christianity. I enjoy our time together because her questions are basic but penetrating. Sometimes she has me really searching for answers. Then I find I learn so much just listening to her as her love for Jesus Christ comes through Often while we are talking, I wonder why I am the one doing the writing!

During our last discussion she asked, "What is the difference between a believer and a disciple"? How would you respond to that question I wonder? I told her I thought it has to do with the progression of one's faith. First we believe then we become disciples.

When I asked for her thoughts on the subject, these were her beautiful words: "A believer is someone who comes to Christ, but a disciple is someone who follows Him."

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for leading us to places where we can meet and share our faith with others. Often we find we have different beliefs and practices, but we share one faith in the light and love of our Lord and Savoir, Your Son, Jesus The Christ. It's in His holy name we pray. Amen.

Judy Welch.

 

 

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 October 1, 2009

TITLE: Nevertheless

SCRIPTURE:  "Many times he delivered them, but they were rebellious in their purposes, and were brought low through their iniquity. Nevertheless he regarded their distress when he heard their cry."  Psalm 106:43-44,

 

REFLECTION: The word, "nevertheless," is a grammatical turning point. It redirects our thoughts. It also redirects our lives. I am behind on my EYOB reading. Nevertheless I will get back on track. My boss fired me. Nevertheless another opportunity will come. This illness has sapped my strength. Nevertheless I will trust the healing process.

In Psalm 106 the writer paints a bleak picture. The people of God have rebelled against their Deliverer. The Mighty One performs powerful acts on their behalf and they quickly forget. The Redeemer forgives their disobedience and they take their Lord for granted. God turns toward them and they turn away. The prognosis is grim, the ugly end inevitable, yet when all seems lost that four syllable word, "nevertheless," stops us in our tracks.

This momentum changing word should not be used lightly. "Nevertheless" is God's word. Sure, we can throw it around, use it on a whim, but it has no power on its own. When the preacher proclaims at a funeral, "Your loved one is dead. Nevertheless God has raised her to new life," it is not the human sentiment that saves. What saves is God's Spirit declaring to our spirit, "Grief is unbearable. Nevertheless I bear it with you. Death is overwhelming. Nevertheless I have overcome the grave." What saves is us declaring, "This is unbelievable! Nevertheless, I believe."

PRAYER: God of hope, like Israel we cry out to you for help and You hear our distress. Give us ears to hear and eyes to see Your saving power in our midst. Amen.

JP Carlson

 

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September 30, 2009 

 

TITLE:  SABBATH

SCRIPTURE: Moses replied, "The Lord has appointed tomorrow as a day of rest, a holy Sabbath to the Lord. On this day we will rest from our normal daily tasks . Exodus 16:23

Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Exodus 20:8

The Lord then gave these further instructions to Moses. "Tell the people of Israel to keep my Sabbath day, for the Sabbath is a sign of the covenant between me and you forever. It helps you to remember that I am the Lord, who makes you holy." Exodus 31:12-13

REFLECTION: Recently DeEtte Kohrell sent me a sheet with some of her thoughts. As I read them, it brought to mind some scripture that I have read while reading the Bible this year. The following is DeEtte's thoughts.

How To Relax

Do you keep the Sabbath by relaxing? One way is to take an imaginary suitcase and put it out the door . In that suitcase you put all the odors, noise, all your problems, aches or pains and lock it and never pick it up. Also you can imagine yourself on a mountain or near a lake, whatever is your favorite place. So keep the Sabbath by relaxing next Sunday and may God Bless you all. DeEtte

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, In our hectic life, remind us to take a day of rest and keep the Sabbath holy. Amen

Susan Taylor

 

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September 29, 2009

TITLE: FAITH

SCRIPTURE: Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. ......... And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11: 1,6

Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. Romans 10: 17

REFLECTION: Our EYOB reading for September 29 includes Hebrews, Chapter 11, known to many as the "Hall of Faith". It contains the names of many Old Testament characters such as Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Noah, and Moses, and summaries of their acts of faith in God. It's almost like a Readers Digest condensed version of the Old Testament! Through the faith of these individuals and others, the descendants of Abraham became "as numerous as the stars in the sky," nations were built, the oppressed were freed, the afflicted were healed, justice was preserved, battles were won, etc.

Our own expressions of faith might be less risky and less dramatic, but no less obvious and important to God. We must show by our obedience to the teachings of Christ that we believe in God's love for us and His willingness to keep His promises to all those who believe in Him.

PRAYER: Lord, we are grateful for Your love and Your promises and Your grace. We ask that You be patient with us as we learn to trust in You completely and without reservation. Thank You for sending Your Son to show us the way. Amen.

Judith Keller 

 

 

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September 28, 2009

SCRIPTURE: "But the LORD is in His holy temple. Let all the earth be silent before Himl" Habakkuk 2:20

LORD, I have heard the report about Yor and I fear. O LORD, revive Your work in the midst of the years, In the midst of the years make it known; In wrath remember mercy. Habakkuk 3:2

REFLECTION: Our precept Bible study this time has been on Habakkuk and what a delightful surprise it has been. Although I have read through the book several times, I don't remember ever studying it in depth until now. I am inpressed with it and I know I will go to it often. We all have much in common with Habakkuk as he has many questions for his God and he is not afraid to go to God with them. In fact he is very comfortable to go to God with them, as we all should be, and God answers him as he will us. Life is filled with questions. Asking how and why and when, we probe beneath the surface to find satisfying answers. But not all questions have answers wrapped and neatly tied. Sometimes these unanswered interrogations create more questions and often spiritual doubts. But we can continue to ask, looking for answers and who better to go to than our God.

We know little about Habakkuk, but Habakkuk was a man who sought answers. Troubled by what he observed, he asked difficult questions. Haabakkuk saw a dying world, and it broke his heart. Why is there evil in the world? Why do the wicked seem to be winning He boldly and confidently took his complaints directly to God. And God answered......with an avalance of proof and prediction.

The prophet's questions and God's answers are recorded for us in this book. Most of the first chapter is devoted to his questions. As chapter two begins, Habakkuk declared that he will wait to hear God's answers to his complaints. Then God begins to speak, telling the prophet to write his answer plainly so that all will see and understand. It may seem, God says, as though the wicked triumph, but eventually they will be judged, and righteousness will prevail. Judgment may not come quickly, but it will come. God's answers fill chapter two. Then Habakkuk concludes his book with a prayer of triumph. With a new understanding of God's power and love, Habakkuk rejoices in who God is and in what he will do.

The book shows that God is still in control of the work despite the apparent triumph of evil. Listen to the profound questions that Habakkuk brings to God, and realize that you can also bring your complaints and inquiries to Him. Listen to God's answers and rejoice that he is at work in the world and in our lives. Remember God has shown us several things here. First that God is doing something and nothing is without a purpose. It will not destroy us. We are to live by faith and that someday all things will be right. And finally the LORD is in His Holy Temple.

PRAYER: Lord, we come before you with awe and a new understanding that you want us to come to you with our questions and complaints. You welcome them and will answer us in your time and in your way. We only need to have faith and a trust in you.......and help us to grow in that faith and trust. Amen

Marilyn (Jones) Albin

 

 

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September 27, 2009 

TITLE: "The Unexpected "

SCRIPTURE: "Thou wilt show me the path of life; In thy presence is fullness of joy; At thy right hand are pleasures for evermore". Psalm 16: 11.

REFLECTION: It was a lovely, sunny, summer morning, We had not listened to TV or radio weather news, so what a surprise when soon the sky darkened significantly and down came the rain for several minutes. The sun came out again and remained so that day, but what an awesome surprise when God sent a ‘quickie' refreshment to His outdoor creation.

A few days later, a friend told me about her 80th birthday/family reunion celebration in her backyard. A son from out-of-town had brought his 2 dogs with him and she wanted him to kennel the dogs fearing they might cause trouble for the small children who would be attending the gathering. But he said there would be no problem even though the dogs were not familiar with children. Well, one of the dogs loved the children and they loved it. What did my friend see during the party? - a toddler lying between the 2 dogs, under a table, with a hand on each dog, an amazing, happy surprise.

SCRIPTURE: "Whither shall I go from thy Spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence? " -"If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me". Psalm 139: 7,9,10.

REFLECTION: Then a 3rd "unexpected" of greater magnitude came to me. When I learned I had cancer, it was an immediate repositioning of my life. What may be ahead in the next weeks and months? Yes, it was unwelcome news, but I soon felt the Presence and faithfulness of God and the Holy Spirit and felt generally at peace. HE was there, more so than I expected.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, may we give thanks for the happy small events that come to us, and then give even deeper thanks for your Presence in the difficult times we experience.

Ravera Edwards 

 

 

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September 26, 2009

TITLE: Who is My Neighbor?

SCRIPTRUE: Jesus said: "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper. 'Look after him,' he said, 'and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.' Luke 10:30-35

REFLECTION: Jesus does not dwell on the mugging itself.  Somewhere on that desolate road a lone traveler, almost certainly a Jew is set upon by a band of robbers.  He is not only robbed, but is also brutalized and left dying.  Why did these men "pass by on the other side"?

We should not make the mistake of thinking these are "bad" men. No, not bad, but busy.  For them and too often, for us people in need are problems.  They intrude awkwardly on our privacy.  Our newspapers are full of stories of people whose plights are ignored by passersby.  We live in a world drowning in human needs, the hurting, the homeless, the hungry.  Just what are the limits to my love?  How far does our responsibility go?  Who isn't our neighbor?  Who don't I, we have to love?  We must be the "Good Samaritan."  A person who does NOT pass by on the other side.

The Samaritan also shows commitment.  This victim is a total stranger, a man of another race and religion.  He is stripped penniless.  But he adds, "When I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have."  Then Jesus asks, "Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?" "The one who had mercy on him."  Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise." 

Loving our neighbor, I feel, is visible evidence of our relation to God.  Jesus has told us in Scripture, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and thy neighbor as thyself." 

PRAYER: Dear God, enable us to act like your children in all that we do.  Open our eyes to your neighbors as your beloved children, our sisters and brothers.  Amen.

Bo b Schiebinger

 

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September 25, 2009

TITLE: Plumbing and Vanity

SCRIPTURE: Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18 RSV

REFLECTION: My appointment for having my picture taken for the church pictorial directory was scheduled during the last week of photography. Therefore I had plenty of time to schedule a hair appointment for the day prior to the "photo shoot". Hair appointment day arrived only for me to discover a serious plumbing problem at my home. The plumber said, "I'll be there but it will be later in the afternoon." Since I needed to be home for the plumber, I rescheduled the hair appointment. Of course, I also immediately rescheduled the photo appointment for the same day (a little later).

The day arrived and all day long it rained. Not a lot, just a drizzle off and on that played havoc with my hair. It occurred to me that maybe God was sending me a message about my vanity.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank you for sending us your loving reminders when our priorities become a bit askew. Also Lord, thank you for the plumber. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Kathy Kuehn 

 

 

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September 24, 2009

TITLE: GOD'S FAMILY

SCRIPTURE: You are members of God's very own family, citizens of God's country, and you belong in God's household with every other Christian. Ephesians 2:19b

God's family is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. 1 Timothy 3:15b

REFLECTION: The Bible assures us we are not alone--we are members of God's family, and citizens of God's country. We feel the love and support of our own Eastridge Church when we are suffering. Not only does God love us and put his arms around us when we are troubled, but our fellow Christians rally around us and encourage us.

I felt the love and support of my Eastridge friends when my son Chris died two years ago. It was amazing...the cards, the calls, the hugs, the comforting words, it all helped so much. I really don't know how anyone survives without God and their faith when tragedy hits.

I have been very touched the last few weeks at the church's response to the tragedy that has befallen the Lindberg family. Here was a sweet little baby girl who was very ill, and needed heart surgery. A barbeque was held, a good amount of money was raised, and plans were in place for another fund-raiser. But God stepped in and took that sweet little baby home to be with him. While her family will feel the void for a long, long time, we know that God is holding her in his loving arms, and she will not have to suffer anymore.

Even in the Garden of Eden, God told Adam and Eve, "It is not good for man to be alone." We are created for community, made for fellowship and formed for a family. None of us can fulfill God's purposes by ourselves. We are all connected. Following Christ means belonging, not just believing. We are members of his body. To Paul, being a "member" meant being a vital organ of a living body, and a vital and interconnected part of "the body of Christ". But in order to do this, we must be a part of a living local church. If we don't, our spiritual life will wither and decline.

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, Help us to truly become members of the body of Christ, and a vital and active part of his church. We know he gave his all for us by dying on the cross for our sins. Thank you so much for this wonderful gift. Amen.

Gerry Draney 

 

 

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September 23, 2009

TITLE: The Fascinating Man of Ezra who Fasted

SCRIPTURE:  He was a teacher well versed in the Law of Moses, which the LORD, the God of Israel, had given. The king had granted him everything he asked, (including about $5 million dollars of gold and silver) for the hand of the LORD his God was on him. Some of the Israelites, including priests, Levites, singers, gatekeepers and temple servants, also came up to Jerusalem in the seventh year of King Artaxerxes.  Ezra 7:6b

There, by the Ahava Canal, I (Ezra) proclaimed a fast, so that we might humble ourselves before our God and ask him for a safe journey for us and our children, with all our possessions. Ezra 8:21

REFLECTION: A Westminster Bible class sent me the material on Ezra which I was to speak on last Sunday. I didn't know much about Ezra. After studying, I came to realize there was much to teach from Ezra's life. Ezra fasted before his very important voyage back to Jerusalem to bring the people back to faith in God. He chose fasting and prayer to rely on for their safety rather than soldiers.

Have you fasted for a spiritual purpose? At one point in my life two people told me they were fasting and praying for me. This touched me deeply. I have since fasted for others. The closeness this brought me to Jesus, who fasted also, is unmatched.

PRAYER  Dear LORD, forgive us for ignoring one of Christ's greatest teachings. Help us to learn how to use fasting in this year of 2009 and receive the blessings it gives.

Sandra Hilsabeck 

 

 

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September 22, 2009

TITLE: Reflection on Pastor Jim's Sermons

SCRIPTURE: "Remember the Sabbath day, and keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work. But the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God; you shall not do any work....Exodus 20:8-10.

REFLECTION: Pastor Jim's sermons are so meaningful to me each week and I reflect on Sunday's sermon throughout each week. This particular sermon on "Sevening" was particularly meaningful to me. I remember as a child, my family truly kept Sundays as a "day of rest". Our family and friends would gather on Sunday afternoon after church services to visit with one another and "catch up on the happenings of the week". Most stores were closed on Sunday, as well. Time seemed to move much slower at that time. People seemed to take more time to visit with one another, to care for one another, and to show compassion for one another on those Sunday afternoons.

What a difference from that time until the busyness of today. We continue to reserve Sunday morning for church service, however, Sunday afternoon becomes a time to prepare for the upcoming week, do grocery shopping, do laundry, clean house, etc. Pastor Jim reminded us that God had a plan that He modeled for us, that on the seventh day, God rested and "drew a breath". This not only prepares us for the upcoming week, but for the future as well.

Do you keep the Sabbath day holy? Do you rest on the seventh day? I wonder what would happen if we all decided that we would follow the plan that God modeled for us?

PRAYER: Our Heavenly Father, thank you for modeling for us your plan to rest and keep the Sabbath day holy. Help us to honor you in all that we do and in all that we say. In your name we pray. Amen

Linda Douglas

 

 

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September 21, 2009

DEVOTION: "In Her Own Way"

SCRIPTURE: Pray without ceasing. -- 1 Thessalonians 5:17

MEDITATION: On Labor Day weekend early this month, a pianist played a special solo at the Sunday morning service, the well known hymn, "In the Garden." As I listened, the words, "And he walks with me and he talks with me," evoked a special memory full of meaning for me.

My mother's mother passed away many years ago at a relatively young age. That Sunday marked seventy-one years almost to the day

when her funeral was held, as was often the custom in the home. I was only a small boy, but I remember very well that one of the hymns sung during that service was "In the Garden." The playing of that hymn was a coincidence, of course, but it resonated with me.

My grandmother was a very private, kind, gentle, unassuming woman very much loved by her family and those who knew her. But she did not attend church regularly although she was a member, and in thinking of her I have always found this a bit unsettling. It may have been because of her physical limitations, and I've been told that she often read the Bible.

As I sat in church that Sunday a couple of weeks ago listening to the music and remembering her, the thought came to me that one of my favorite verses in the Bible carries Paul's admonition that we should "Pray without ceasing." Our relationship with God is not necessarily tied just to Sunday services or morning and evening prayers in which we often leave God behind with a perfunctory "amen." God is always present and willing to have a private talk with us. As we go about our duties and activities, we should always be in an attitude of prayer.

Judging by the way she lived her life, I think that characterized my grandmother-not making a public show of anything-but talking with God in her quiet way as she lived the life he gave her, drawing comfort and strength from him. The hymn brought a feeling of comfort and resolution to me Sunday morning after so many years.

PRAYER: Our Father, Thank you for memories of special people in our lives that bring comfort and meaning to us. Help us to understand that we can all serve you in different ways in whatever station of life you place us. Some are officials who are in the public eye and accomplish much for your kingdom. Others serve you quietly and humbly inside or perhaps outside the church, but never far from you. I know you'll understand if I just leave this prayer open and not close with the usual "Amen." In Jesus' name I pray.

Keith M. Heim 

 

 

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September 20, 2009

TITLE: "Absolutely Relative"

SCRIPTURE: "Woe to them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! . . . Therefore as the fire devoureth the stubble, and the flame consumeth the chaff, so their root shall be as rottenness, and their blossom shall go up as dust: because they have cast away the law of the Lord of hosts, and despised the word of the Holy One of Israel. Isaiah 5:20, 24.

"Pilate saith unto him [Christ], ‘What is truth?'" John 18:38.

Meditation: Perhaps the greatest fallacy of this age is the assertion that truth is relative. The physical sciences tend to deal in absolutes, but when social values and morality are concerned, many of us today believe that there are no absolutes. After all, the times are a-changin' and one can follow his own lights, "do his own thing." --And the modern social god "Tolerance" demands that others respect that-and that's an absolute!

Certainly, some things have no intrinsic moral value-"Shall I take Route 34 to Seward or go by way of the Interstate?" "Should I make my sandwich with cheddar cheese or Limburger?" "For my balloon ascension tomorrow, should I fill the bag with helium or laughing gas?" -- No moral question here, but science can be unforgiving!"

While the field of "ethics" may allow some slippage from generation to generation, in the field of religion, God has provided a clear guideline in questions of morality, beginning with the Ten Commandments. That guide is the Bible, and when passages are beyond our understanding, he has given us the Holy Spirit to make things clear. Through reading of the Bible and an attitude of prayer in all we do, he gives the principles by which we can order our lives and become, in a lifelong process, like our savior, Jesus Christ. Christians can rely upon his Word-absolutely.

PRAYER: Our Father, Sometimes our moral compass seems to point in all directions, and we are swept from our course by the winds of social pressure and modern philosophy. Help us to remember that Jesus is "the author and finisher of our faith," and to seek Him and his guidance through faithful reading of your Word and prayer. In His name, Amen

Keith M. Heim

 

 

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September 19, 2009

 TITLE: Finding Direction

SCRIPTURE: 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. Proverbs 3:5,6

REFLECTION: This verse is one of the more popular verses and one of my all-time favorites. When I worked at summer church camp, we used to play a game where we would blindfold one of the kids and have him or her run through a wooded area, relying on a friend for verbal direction to help navigate. "Turn to your right; there's a tree coming!" "No, you're other right!" "There's a log in front of you, JUMP!" It was interesting to watch them play this game. Some kids would not trust their partner and walk real slow and shuffle their feet even though their partner was shouting the way was clear. Others would trot along and a few would just go like crazy. All of them, though, had to fight the urge to tear off the blindfold so they could see what was ahead. It takes a great deal of courage to follow another person's lead.

As Christians, we sometimes feel like those blindfolded kids. In 2 Corinthians 5:7, Paul says, "We live by faith, not by sight." We're not along in the woods. God directs our paths. To follow Christ takes a lot of courage. Often his leadings sound irrational or even impossible. Often I just want to play it safe but the voice inside is always asking, "Where's your courage. You can trust God." It takes a lot of courage to follow God's leadings. Some of his tests stretch you to your limit. If there was an endangered character-quality list, spiritual courage would truly be on it.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, help us to trust you with all our heart. Guide us when we are blindfolded. Keep us on your path.

Keith Mandachit 

 

 

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September 18, 2009

SCRIPTURE:
"Even to your old age and gray hairs
I am he, I am he who will sustain you.
I have made you and I will carry you;
I will sustain you and I will rescue you."   Isaiah 46:4

REFLECTION: This verse was the verse of the day on Biblegateway.com today. It struck me because I recently celebrated a birthday, and sometimes I definitely feel like I'm reaching "old age." And if it weren't for my hairstylist, I would definitely be exhibiting the "gray hairs."

However, the verse reminds us that no matter how old we are or how gray our hair gets, God is there. It is He who sustains us. He made us and carries us. Indeed, He rescues us. It is so easy to forget that as we go about our daily lives. We want to be in control of everything. If we need to be rescued, we try to figure out how to do it ourselves. Or we call on friends or family for assistance.

All we really need to do is to rely on God. He's there for us and willing to help us. He's willing to have a relationship with us. But a relationship cannot be one-sided-it requires that two parties work together. No matter how far into "old age" we get or how many "gray hairs" we have (or try to cover up), God is there for us.

PRAYERr: Dearest Lord, We thank you for your sustenance and your acting as our rescuer. Forgive us for trying to take charge of everything ourselves and failing to nurture our relationship with you. Help us to appreciate all we have been given, now and into "old age."

Robin Hadfield

 

 

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September 17, 2009

Title: Casting prayer nets. "What if?"

Scripture: Just after daybreak, Jesus stood on the beach; but the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, "Children, you have no fish, have you?" They answered Him, "No." He said to them, "Cast the net to the right side of the boat, and you will find some." So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in because there were so many fish. That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" John 21: vs. 4-7

Reflection: This summer I undertook a very rewarding odyssey. I agreed to pray for a particular person or family each day for the three summer months. When I received the 90+ names it seem a long journey, but it wasn't. There on the list were those whom I knew and others I did not know, but it made no difference in my prayers. I kept remembering those beautiful lines from Tennyson"s Morte d'Arthur; "And thou, if thou shoulds't never see my face again, pray for my soul. More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of." Now you ask, "What does this have to do with the scripture?" Let me draw a picture of those disciples who were fishing as I see them. They were experienced fishermen. Their lively-hood depended on knowing where and when to fish and they had labored all night in deep water, casting out their heavy nets again and again and yet they caught nothing. Weary and empty-handed they approached the shore. A disciple "whom Jesus loved" recognized His presence. When Jesus told them to cast their nets again, miracles happened. Now let me come to the "what ifs". What if every person in the world who professes the name of Christ would recognize His presence and pray for our world? What might happen? Maybe that "what if" is too big. What if every member of our church family would pray for our church to feel His presence and do God's work. What might happen? Of course, I do not have the answer, but I do believe with Tennyson that more things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of. Wouldn't it be exciting to try and see what harvest we could bring up in our nets?

Prayer: Dear Father, help us have the vision that comes from knowing Christ is our center and to truly believe when we pray "Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done." In Christ's name we humbly pray. Amen.

Dot French 

 

 

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September 16, 2009

TITLE:  God's Kindness

SCRIPTURE: God our Savior showed us how good and kind He is.  He saved us because of His mercy, and not because of any good things that we have done.  God washed us by the power of the Holy Spirit.  He gave us new birth and a fresh beginning.  God sent Jesus Christ our Savior to give us his Spirit.  Jesus treated us much better than we deserve.  He made us acceptable to God and gave us the hope of eternal life.    Titus 3:4-7

REFLECTION: God is continually showing us that He is "good and kind."  Sometimes the "stuff" of life, and our own sins, keeps us from seeing God's mercy, but His gifts are always there.   Imagine how powerful the Holy Spirit's cleansing is that it makes us able to enter God's presence.  

Jesus gave us the gift of God's Spirit.  When he lived with mankind and faced and defeated death for us, he opened access to God's Spirit.  Because of Jesus, God lives with and in us, not because of any righteousness that we have, but because Christ gave His righteousness to us.  On those days when I know I do not measure up to God's mercy, I can be confident in Jesus gift of mercy that is non-returnable.    

PRAYER:  Jesus, we marvel at your grace.  How can you redeem us without any merit on our part?  When we look at ourselves, we see what a necessary and miraculous thing your gift is.  It is clear that we do not have any means of obtaining your favor.  Thank you for giving your love and Spirit freely.  Continue to cleanse us and strengthen the hope of eternal life in us.        Amen

Angie Berkebile

 

 

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September 15, 2009

SCRIPTURE: This is a true saying: "If we have died with him, we shall also live with him. If we continue to endure, we shall also rule with him. If we deny him, he also will deny us. If we are not faithful, he remains faithful, because he cannot be false to himself." 2 Timothy 11-13

REFLECTION: Somewhere along the road in our travels, I saw a sign that read, "A relationship that needs to be kept secret is a bad one." It is not known to what they referred but for me, the words jolted within my being.

Am I keeping my relationship with Jesus Christ a secret? And if I am, is that relationship a bad one? Many times, there have been opportunities to witness for Jesus Christ but afraid to get in "someone else's face", have remained silent. Perhaps you do the same, not just by being silent but by not participating in the conversation that has to do with the Bible or with Christ our Savior or even prayer in a public place. Paul's letter to Timothy brings sweet relief, for if we are not faithful, he remains faithful, because he cannot be false to himself. Thank God for the gift of Jesus Christ, his son.

PRAYER: Dear God be with us in this time of change - weather, leaves, mind, etc. Help us to be secure in your love and power. Amen

Carolyn Olsen

 

 

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September 14, 2009

TITLE: Enjoy Your Work

SCRIPTURE: Then I realized that it is good and proper for a man to eat and drink, and to find satisfaction in his toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given him-for this is his lot. Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy in this work-this is a gift from God. He seldom reflects on the days of his life, because God keeps him occupied with gladness of heart. Ecclesiastes 5:18-20

REFLECTION: Most every day I am thankful for my job because I enjoy my work. I didn't realize until reading this passage today that being happy in my work is a gift from God. Yes, some days it is "toilsome," but what job isn't at times. I have often told my kids my three qualifications for them in finding a career: 1) the job must be legal (okay-probably not needed but you need clear expectations for kids!); 2) you have to support yourself and later a family; and 3) most importantly, enjoy what you do so you can get up and go to work every day. Hopefully we use the talents God gives us to both make a living and serve Him.

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father: Thank you from those of us content in our work. Please give direction and wisdom to those searching for jobs and hope to those who have20lost them. Amen.

Cathy Schapmann 

 

 

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September 13, 2009

 

 TITLE: Every Adversity Leads to a New Possibility

SCRIPTURE: I press toward the goal for the prize of the Upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:14

REFLECTION: Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, in his book entitled "Treasury of Joy and Enthusiasm", writes, and I quote, "There are two days in the week upon which and about which I never worry, two carefree days kept sacredly free from fear and apprehension. One of these days is yesterday. Yesterday, with its cares and frets and all its pains and aches, all its faults, its mistakes and blunders, has passed forever beyond recall. It was mine. Now it is God's. And the other day that I do not worry about is tomorrow. Tomorrow, with all its adversities, its burdens, its perils, failures, mistakes, is far beyond my control. It will be mine with God's help."

You and I do not deliberately look for trouble in life. It seems to just come. Suffering is a universal fact. No one can escape it. The rain falls upon the just and the unjust. Some people have the mistaken idea that becoming a Christian will shelter us from the personal storms of life. A large number of our favorite hymns and spiritual songs seem to have been composed in the taxing part of ones life.

Many illustrations could be given: Charlotte Elliotte Wrote, "Just as I Am' when she was a helpless invalid. Frances Ridley was the author of "Take My Life And Let It Be" and many other hymns, suffered much ill health. So, out of adversity comes new possibilities. The situation may be critical, but there is help from God. As the Apostle Paul said, "I press toward the goal in Christ Jesus."

You and I are here because we have a worthy goal. A church ad recently appeared in a newspaper. It read, "A church is not a museum for saints but a hospital for sinners." Yes, this very Sanctuary where you and I worship every Sunday, is a hospital for our spiritual health, our spiritual well being.

You and I have done many great things for our Lord. We have seen many changes take place, too many to mention. But can we....... weigh a pound of fire?, measure a bushel of wind? Capture a cloud in the sky? Or call back a day that has passed.

PRAYER: When all seems lost, and the future looks dim, our Lord will help us if we will just turn to Him. God's endless love will give us hope. He knows our needs. He will show us the way. Dear God please help us to trust in You, as You are always there to hold us in Your loving arms. We ask all this in our Savior's name. Amen.

Bob Schiebinger 

 

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September 12, 2009 

TITLE: Grace

SCRIPTURE: But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 5:20-21

REFLECTION: I have often wondered what Grace really is. I know that God is full of Grace, but what does that really mean? According to Dictionary.com, part of the definition for Grace is:

a. the freely given, unmerited favor and love of God.

b. the influence or spirit of God operating in humans to regenerate or strengthen them.

Freely given LOVE of GOD...Unmerited favor.... Spirit of God operating in humans to regenerate and strengthen them......

Grace appears to be a complex concept. It is not a thing like I had originally thought, but a multi-dimensional concept. (I was never very good at understanding vague theories and concepts!!) It is no wonder that we need God's grace to get to heaven. It is his freely given Love, in part through the death of his Son, that allows us to live with him forever. Unmerited favor, that is like being the favorite child!!!! (Who hasn't wanted to be the favored child when we were growing up!!! I was all along, and I didn't even know it!!!) When I feel down and out, drained, exhausted, a prayer always makes me feel better, even rejuvenated! That must be the Grace of God strengthening me!!!

According to this Bible verse, if we do sin and cause him and ourselves pain and grief, he will still be there with his grace (his LOVE, his FAVOR, always strengthing us) to grant us eternal life!!!!

PRAYER: Dear Lord, please help me to someday understand the depth of your grace. How wonderful that you give us a gift so deep that we can barely understand what it is you are really giving us! Even with our simple minds, you still love us!!!! How wonderful you really are!!!! Amen.

Laurie Schlitt

 

 

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September 11, 2009

Scripture:  Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication.  Ephesians 6: 11-17

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the LOVE OF GOD that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.  Romans 8:38-39

Reflection:  When my kids were little they were THOSE kids in the neighborhood - the ones whose mom made them wear their helmets when they rode their bikes and their knee pads and their wrist guards when they roller bladed.  When they whined I told them that they needed to protect the brains God gave them.  Now they're grown up and they're like all the rest of the Christians in the world.  We face a world even more dangerous than the sidewalks of our neighborhoods.

 The Bible tells us that though we are strangers in an alien land, fighting demons of the physical and spiritual kind, God still protects us on both the offensive and defensive fronts. For the Defensive:  Take up the whole armor of God - the belt of knowing that God is God, the breastplate of knowing of God's unconditional love for us, the shoes that take us to places we need to go and keep us from going places we shouldn't, the shield of the faith of knowing God is in control, and the helmet that protects our mind from Satan and keeps us on the side of God.  And along with all this defense, we are given a single offensive tool - the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word.  After surviving the pitfalls and dangers of the word, we have the Word of God to care for us and share with others.

Today we remember the evil that shook up our world - proof that there was evil in the world that as humans we were powerless to control.  But even that could not separate us from the love of God.  Evil did not take over the world after that occurred. People reached out and people looked up, and in many ways our world is better for the efforts of Christians and others in the aftermath.

So today, if it feels like we're surrounded by people who see things differently than we do, we can know that God knew this would happen and He didn't leave us defenseless.  He has armed us well!

Prayer:  God our Father,  you knew that sometimes this world would seem like an unfriendly and alien place and that we'd have to be strong to resist trying to blend in and becoming like the world.  Thank you that you have protected us in all ways and for the words of Paul that paint such a clear picture of all that you've provided for us.  Amen

Lori Snyder-Sloan 

 

 

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September 10, 2009

Scripture: A truthful witness gives honest testimony, but a false witness tells lies. Proverbs 12:7

Reflection: As hopefully most of you did, we had our family pictures scheduled for the directory just the other night. After a near battle to get our family somewhat color coordinated, faces washed, teeth brushed, hair combed and out the door to meet Dad, I was exhausted. By the time we checked in it was a good thing we had a few minutes to sit because I thought to myself, "I don't feel like smiling right now."

And then to top it all off Addison, age 3, was scared of the big flash and the dark room, so just as I was composing myself, she was dissolving into tantrum stage...not uncommon in our house at this precious age.

We managed to get some taken and as we sat down to view our pictures, specifically of the kids, I thought, how is it that we were missing the very essence of my children... where was Logan's sweet and sometimes mischievous smile? Addison's "the world is mine when I dance smile" had become a smug, if not snotty "here I am" pose and Caleb, who can light up a room with his smile looked posed and tired. It was as if we had missed the real picture of who we are, but it was also the truth...

Do you ever find yourself doing that for God...putting on the Sunday best and smiling when you feel like dissolving into tears...responding to the question "How are you?" with "Great and you?" When what you really mean is "I've had it up to here and I'm not sure I can take another step...

Ironically the joke's on us, because though we may fool some people surrounding us, we NEVER fool the one who created us, and I believe that though guarding our hearts is our nature and sometimes protective and appropriate, we will never fully experience the full joy of Christ if we can't be real and authentically who we are with someone...a spouse, a friend, an acquaintance from church...and what greater joy we must bring our Creator when we are exactly what He intended us to be.

Prayer: Father God help us to let down our guard and be who we are and unashamed when it is not perfection. Help us to know that you love us with all of our flaws and allowing us to see them and share them only gives us an opportunity to seek help from You or others. Help us to recognize our need for you and to humbly fall at your feet and ask for it when we need it most. Amen.

Kimberly Shirk

 

 

 

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lSeptember 9, 2009

 

TITLE: Solomon's Wisdom

 

SCRIPTURE:  God gave Solomon very great wisdom, discernment, and breadth of understanding as vast as the sand on the seashore, so that Solomon's wisdom surpassed the wisdom of all the people of the east, and all the wisdom of Egypt. He was wiser than anyone else......  1 kINGS 4:29-31

 

REFLECTION; As I write this, our EYOB reading schedule is involved with the book of Proverbs in the Old Testament. To fully appreciate the message of Proverbs, it was necessary for me to refresh my awareness of King Solomon, the author of much of Proverbs.

King Solomon had some very successful and positive leadership times during his history. Unfortunately, he also had some negative leadership roles as well. However, Solomon did love the Lord and in l Kings it is recorded that in a dream Solomon asked the Lord for wisdom and understanding to govern and lead God's people. God was so pleased that Solomon had not asked for personal life or riches that He would grant him a wise and discerning mind. 1 Kings 4: 29-31 describes Solomon's wisdom. The Bible tells us that he became the wisest man in the world! As the result of this, Solomon's reputation as a wise man and leader spread far and wide. Leaders from other nations came to observe and learn from him. He was
also known as a lecturer and scientist.

The book of Proverbs tells us that wisdom comes from God's law and commandments. Therefore, wisdom must come from the Bible. In the book of Proverbs, we find Solomon's practical guidance about how we are to live our daily lives.

In his sermon on Sunday, August 23, Pastor Jim told us that Christians need to be wise. The book of Proverbs should be an important guide as we build our Christian lives. Perhaps you too will find much guidance as you read and study Proverbs.

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, As we grow in our faith and understanding to live our Christian lives, we thank you for the wise guidance that we find in your Holy Word-the Bible. Help us to continue to see and follow such wise direction. In Your son's name we pray. Amen

Lauren Holcombe 

 

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September 8, 2009

Watch out that no bitterness takes root among you, for as it springs up it causes deep trouble, hurting many in their spiritual lives.  Hebrews 12:15b 

THE CENTIPEDE

 

The centipede is an invertebrate

With many agile feet.

He is a speedy predator,

And at night he likes to eat.

 

His front pair of legs are pincers,

Poisoning his prey,

This creature is mostly nocturnal,

And in daylight, he hides away.

 

There are countless species,

But you rarely see them at all.

Some grow quite large in the tropics,

But the ones we see are small.

 While the centipede can grow to a length of ten and a half inches in Brazil, the ones we see are generally one to two inches long.  They immobilize their prey by injecting poison into its system.  Just as this poison paralyzes the centipede’s prey, so bitterness can immobilize us.  How can we grow spiritually with poison eating away at our hearts?  The devil loves to work in insidious ways, and bitterness is one of his favorite tools.  Once rooted, it grows like a cancer, affecting us and all of those with whom we come in contact.  Let us be on the lookout for the first symptoms and escape by mobilizing our defenses—the Holy Spirit and God’s mighty Word.

 Dear Heavenly Father, I pray that I might be so filled with Your Spirit that no room is left in my heart for adverse feelings such as bitterness and resentment.  I thank You for Your many blessings, knowing that under Your care and guidance I am free to reject such poisonous feelings.

 

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

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September 7, 2009

SCRIPTURE: Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. I Thessalonians 5: 16-18

REFLECTION: Currently my office is directly across from the pediatric waiting room with little children and their parents coming in for therapy throughout the day. I talked last week with a mother who has 3 of her children currently in therapy for a tough diagnosis. She recently learned that her fourth child also has the same diagnosis and that he also will be starting therapy soon. This mom shared with me her delight when her daughter's teacher called noting how much better she was doing in school. Mom told me that she has been blessed by God with her children. Most parents don't have the privilege of noticing every little thing that their children do-but she and her husband are thrilled when their children are able to do new things. She also shared that she thanks God for her job, the hours she is able to work, her health insurance, and the way God has taken care of her family.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for caring for all your children. We especially ask your presence with the parents of children with handicaps. Help them with your love and peace. Like Paul, help us to pray constantly and give thanks in all circumstances. Amen

Nancy Hall 

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September 6, 2009

Scripture: "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." Hebrews 11:6

St. Ignatius' Prayer of Generosity

Lord, my God,
Teach me to be generous;
To serve you as you deserve;
To give and not to count the cost;
To fight and not to heed the wounds;
To toil and not to seek for rest;
To labor and not to ask for reward,
Save that of knowing I am doing your will.

Reflection: I found this prayer in my copy of The Parent Handbook issued to all parents of Creighton University students. I am trying to memorize it and let it soak into my soul. Honestly, I know that I "count the cost, heed the wounds, seek for rest and ask for reward" more often than I'd like to admit. I do recognize times in my life when I've been willing to surrender to a point that I believe I was truly doing His will. I just wish I was more consistent.

The Hebrews verse is one that was emphasized in a Bible Study I'm working on with my niece. Coincidentally (?), the same night I studied the Hebrews verse, I came across the St. Ignatius' prayer. The Bible study writer was emphasizing:

1."The more we believe God, the more we are likely to see and experience His intervening power."
2.. "Believing God can really be work at times."
3. "Faith's very essence is surrender."

Sometimes God asks us to do simple things. It's not always to travel across the planet doing mission work or to give all of our money to the poor. Sometimes, God's will is something simple. Surrendering to Him and believing Him is the key to St. Ignatius' prayer.

Prayer: Help me to believe that you are bigger than any serving, giving, fighting, toiling or laboring I can ever put forth. May my motivation be to serve you and to show others your love.

Sandy Sunderman

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 September 5, 2009

SCRIPTURE: I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me-- John 10:14

 Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders  Luke 15:4-5

REFLECTION:  A minister was giving a children's sermon.  He told the children about sheep, that they weren't smart and needed lots of guidance, and that a shepherd's job was to stay close to the sheep, protect them from wild animals and keep them from wandering off and doing dumb things that would get them hurt or killed.

He pointed to the little children in the room and said that they were the sheep and needed lots of guidance.

Then the minister put his hands out to the side, palms up in a dramatic gesture, and with raised eyebrows said to the children, "If you are the sheep then who is the shepherd?" He was pretty obviously indicating himself.

A silence of a few seconds followed. Then a young visitor said, "Jesus, Jesus is the shepherd." The young minister, obviously caught by surprise, said to the boy, "Well, then, who am I?"

The little boy frowned thoughtfully and then said with a shrug, "I guess you must be a sheep dog." 

Do we want praise for the things we do, even the things at church?  It is so easy to say look what I've done, not what God has done. 

We should be the sheep dogs and keeping the sheep from straying.  We should move them to areas that God wants them to go.  We should also be protecting them from dangers.  A good sheep dog obeys his master and in return is loved by the master. 

PRAYER:  Heavenly Father, thank you for being my shepherd.  Please let me always remember who is the Shepherd and who is the sheep dog or the sheep.  Amen.

Jan Mitchell

 

 

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September 4, 2009

TITLE: Teamwork

Scripture: After this, the Lord (Jesus) chose 72 more men. Jesus sent the men out in groups of two. He sent them ahead of him into every town and place where he planned to go   Luke 10:1

Reflection: When a team isn't doing well, often you will hear comments about the players not playing like a team. My kids have been on teams with a few exceptional athletes, but if one of those athletes tries to do too much, the end result is generally a loss. We've all heard the adage "two heads are better than one" or "there is no I in team" or "teamwork divides the work but multiplies the successes." Each of these is true.

God recognized the importance of teamwork. The first example of this is that he didn't leave Adam to handle Eden alone. Eve was added as Adam's helpmeet and companion. Jesus didn't handle his ministry alone. He chose a core group of disciples. And he didn't stop there. He chose 72 additional men to help.

The Lord didn't send his disciples out solo. He sent them out in pairs. Pairs were more than twice as effective as a single person in accomplishing the work of preparing people's hearts for the Kingdom of God and the good news about Jesus. Several Jewish principles were behind this. First, testimony needed to be at the hands of two or three witnesses. Second, two are stronger and more effective than one. To this, Jesus adds a third principle of his own: where two or three gather, there he is present. No matter how strong we are, we need a partner. Even the incredibly committed apostle Paul needed his co-workers and friends (see 2 Timothy). We need each other to do God's work and accomplish God's mission. Don't try to do it solo!

PRAYER: Father, I confess that there have been times when others have let me down and this has caused me to want to try to do too much on my own. Sometimes I want the spotlight to be directed only at me. Please help me to open up more of myself to others in your family. Please use me along with others to advance the work of your Kingdom. Thank you for our church family who are always there to lend a helping hand and put together the best team to do your work. Amen.

Cindy Thomson

 

 

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September 3, 2009

TITLE: For Others

SCRIPTURE: And the Lorrestored the fortunes of Job, when he had prayed for his friends; and the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.d  Job 42:10

REFLECTION: I think this is the first time that I have read Job all the way through. The surprise ending grabbed me. But I'm ahead of myself.

Job, a man devoted to God, is plagued with disaster after disaster because Satan is trying to prove to God Job's infidelity. With disaster after disaster Job suffers but never blames God. His three "friends" are not truly friends because they see the problems as corrections from God. But there is a steadfastness in Job's commitment to God. Satan is defeated in his bargain with God and just when you think God is going to replenish Job's wealth there comes the curve ball. God does restore Job's wealth, but not until Job prays for his three friends. I read that part again, and yes that is what it says - "when he prayed for his friends."

Wow! What is the book of Job trying to tell me? I think it says that if I want a right relationship with God, I must pray for others - not myself. If I want a right relationship with God I need to be aware and caring for the poor, those in war, those in unjust circumstances, the hungry, and the ill. I cannot close my eyes to those around me. I must be involved with my fellow citizens in all aspects of life. That's quite a challenge.

PRAYER: Lord, help me with the challenge of caring about others. Help me to be steadfast in my commitment to You and to others. Help me to pray for others. Amen.

Lois Coleman

 

 

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September 2, 2009

TITLE: What DO I Want?

SCRIPTURE: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want... Psalm 23:1

REFLECTION: What does "I shall not want" mean? Does it mean that I shouldn't want or that everything I want will be given to me? In our travels through many different church cultures, I have heard both interpretations of that piece of scripture and some in between. And as I travel through middlescence, I find I interpret that scripture differently than I did when I was coming out of adolescence. Not only have my wants changed, but so has the intensity of my wanting. At this moment in my life, I'm not certain what I want. Good health, of course, safety and health for family, yes. A job, yes. But I don't have any wild wants of youth! Fame, popularity, fortune-I don't want for these things, and yes, at an earlier point in my life, I did. I never prayed that the Lord would take away those wants. It just happened.

The Lord took care of my wants. Maybe it is the wisdom of years, but I don't think so. I think I don't need to "wildly want" for anything anymore, the Lord will provide what I need.

PRAYER: Lord--thank you for gently taking the wild wants of youth fromf me. You have shown me that wanting is not necessary. You provide what I need. Amen.

Kate Swanson 

 

 

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September 1, 2009

TITLE: Fear

SCRIPTURE: "I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears." Psalm 34:4 (NIV)

REFLECTION: Have you ever been afraid and continued to pray to God to help you overcome your fears? I have had occasions when I have felt overcome with fear for my safety, for the safety of my family, for my health, for the health of my family, etc. I have sometimes been overcome by fear on icy roads in the winter and have feared that I will slide off the road or hit another car. When this happens, I begin to pray that God will keep me safe and protect me. Truly, God delivers me from my fears. When I become so fearful, I try to turn those fears over to God. I realize that when I turn those fears over to God, I can become peaceful and can concentrate on the positive healing or safety of others or myself. God will answer our prayers and will help us overcome our fears.

Last fall, my husband was critically ill. Many nights, I was overcome with fear that he would become so very ill that we might not be able to go to the emergency room as quickly as we needed. I continued to pray to God that he would keep both my husband and me safe and that he would help my husband to become well again. It certainly did not happen immediately, but with the help of wonderful physicians and surgeons, he did become well again. I, indeed "sought the Lord and he answered me; he delivered me from my fears."

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help each of us to know when we become fearful that you are with us, that you are guiding us, that you are keeping us safe in your care. Please deliver us from our fears, answer our prayers, and be with us in all that we do and say. In Your name we pray. Amen.

Linda Douglas