https://www.facebook.com/ClappsChapelUnitedMethodistChurch
No news
Do not despair even while the news tells us that things are bad, we have a Savior who has purchased our place in eternity....... A wise man once said "If you worry don't Pray. If you Pray don't worry."
A tale of two conversations
I had two conversations with two different friends at church tonight that basically bore the same subject from two different angles. I don't think my two good friends would mind me sharing, though they will remain nameless. One friend is a female, and one is a male. The one friend had rightfully expressed concern that every show on television has at least touched on the subject of same sex partnerships in some way. It is as if the topic is far too over publicized for the minority of the population it represents. Clearly, there is an agenda of either the networks, or society as a whole to desensitize the population at large to the idea. As if for the last 8-10 thousand years American culture is the first to experience the CHOICE some make to pursue an alternative lifestyle, and the attempt to force its assimilation into main stream culture. It doesn't make us more civilized, advanced, nor tolerant, only ignorant to real history.
The second conversation I had was about the propensity of the American (little c) church to elevate the relativity of one sin above others, and minimize the effect of other sins on believers and non-believers alike. For example consuming alcohol, or gambling which are of a public and taboo nature because of their obvious implications in regards to behavior, and a lack of self control, verses tobacco use, or excessive secular activity, which seem to be more private, and effect only the sinner directly.(I guess?) And possibly their family, and relationship to God, but that is beyond my ability to judge, and is between them and the Lord.
"Well yes I smoke and watch dancing with the stars for the outfits and obvious innuendo, but I don't drink or buy lottery tickets!"
I too am disgusted by the assault on our beliefs, and tempted to elevate myself above a lost and dying world. I love God, and am offended by the worlds disregard for Christ and His gospel. But I'm not sure we are fighting the right battle as believers.
Men deny God and quench the Holy Spirit, as well as reject Jesus for a number of reasons, too many to mention. Chiefly, its because they want to do what THEY WANT to do. If there is no (g)od they don't have to be worried about what (h)e has to say.(They actually do know that God exists see Romans 1:18-20) Once they've convinced themselves that they don't "believe" in (h)im,(suppressed the truth) they have to place the conviction they feel somewhere, so they begin to try to convince the rest of us that there is no (g)od(2nd Peter 2:12-14). Once they get on that train they begin to pick fights with people who are believers. By doing this, they feel as though they give themselves validity. They now have a cause; enlighten the ignorant, and defeat the tyrannical, oppressive evangelical, thus protecting the ignorant masses from the poisonous fairy tale of a sovereign, benevolent, creator. At this point they are ready to debate in favor of a truth that we already know; Man is free to do whatever he wants. Then there is us.
We know that God is real, we know that the Bible is His communication to man, we know that human kind has a sin nature. We have heard and believed the gospel of Christ. But being trapped in our sinful bodies(Romans 7:21-24)we are tempted to set ourselves above all others by looking down on them and deeming ourselves morally superior. This way, we can rest assured that we are not on the same slow boat to hell that "they" are,(which we're not but not simply because we know what is right and what is wrong). So what do we do when they pick a fight with us, guided by their desire to disprove God's true existence? We tell them they are hell bound dirt bags, based off of the "one" in dwelling sin they are trying to protect and defend. When in reality, what we should be screaming is that any person outside of a relationship with Jesus, is condemned.
Romans 3:23
John 3:18-21
John 3:3
Don't get me wrong, when faced with discussing particular sinful activity we should be lovingly honest, bringing the truth of Christ to bare on the conversation. But to harp on just one hot button, controversial, or common sin, is short-sighted, and neglects the truth of the gospel. Jesus came not to condemn but to save(John 3:17).
When faced with these type discussions I am drawn to John 8, and the story of the adulterous woman. She meets Jesus in verses 1-10, he facilitates her redemption. It is only after that, that He says, "go and sin no more." Jesus points out that the only way they can take it upon themselves to "punish" the woman, is if they are completely without sin. They weren't and neither are we. We are fighting people who don't know Him, because they are not following Him? His birth, life, teaching, miracles, death, burial, and resurrection mean nothing to them, let alone the Bible. Until they KNOW HIM they will continue to war against us by flaunting their bad behavior, mocking our every belief, and daring us to stop them. When they meet Him, they will war against themselves(1st Peter 2:11). "Do I need to quit all my bad habits, and sinful behaviors to come to know Christ?" Is the wrong question, and "Yes" is the wrong answer. Jesus paid the price for sinners like you and me. Don't leave the spreading the good news of Christ to the pastor in favor of proving your point about bad behavior, the negative effect thereof, and its modification through morality training. He has called us to "Go and make disciples"(Matthew 28:19) THEN teach them how to act as Christians.(Matthew 20:20)
"How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?"-Romans 3:14
SPREAD THE GOSPEL-JOHN 3:16
Leave the behavior modification to the Holy Spirit.
Dusty
The second conversation I had was about the propensity of the American (little c) church to elevate the relativity of one sin above others, and minimize the effect of other sins on believers and non-believers alike. For example consuming alcohol, or gambling which are of a public and taboo nature because of their obvious implications in regards to behavior, and a lack of self control, verses tobacco use, or excessive secular activity, which seem to be more private, and effect only the sinner directly.(I guess?) And possibly their family, and relationship to God, but that is beyond my ability to judge, and is between them and the Lord.
"Well yes I smoke and watch dancing with the stars for the outfits and obvious innuendo, but I don't drink or buy lottery tickets!"
I too am disgusted by the assault on our beliefs, and tempted to elevate myself above a lost and dying world. I love God, and am offended by the worlds disregard for Christ and His gospel. But I'm not sure we are fighting the right battle as believers.
Men deny God and quench the Holy Spirit, as well as reject Jesus for a number of reasons, too many to mention. Chiefly, its because they want to do what THEY WANT to do. If there is no (g)od they don't have to be worried about what (h)e has to say.(They actually do know that God exists see Romans 1:18-20) Once they've convinced themselves that they don't "believe" in (h)im,(suppressed the truth) they have to place the conviction they feel somewhere, so they begin to try to convince the rest of us that there is no (g)od(2nd Peter 2:12-14). Once they get on that train they begin to pick fights with people who are believers. By doing this, they feel as though they give themselves validity. They now have a cause; enlighten the ignorant, and defeat the tyrannical, oppressive evangelical, thus protecting the ignorant masses from the poisonous fairy tale of a sovereign, benevolent, creator. At this point they are ready to debate in favor of a truth that we already know; Man is free to do whatever he wants. Then there is us.
We know that God is real, we know that the Bible is His communication to man, we know that human kind has a sin nature. We have heard and believed the gospel of Christ. But being trapped in our sinful bodies(Romans 7:21-24)we are tempted to set ourselves above all others by looking down on them and deeming ourselves morally superior. This way, we can rest assured that we are not on the same slow boat to hell that "they" are,(which we're not but not simply because we know what is right and what is wrong). So what do we do when they pick a fight with us, guided by their desire to disprove God's true existence? We tell them they are hell bound dirt bags, based off of the "one" in dwelling sin they are trying to protect and defend. When in reality, what we should be screaming is that any person outside of a relationship with Jesus, is condemned.
Romans 3:23
John 3:18-21
John 3:3
Don't get me wrong, when faced with discussing particular sinful activity we should be lovingly honest, bringing the truth of Christ to bare on the conversation. But to harp on just one hot button, controversial, or common sin, is short-sighted, and neglects the truth of the gospel. Jesus came not to condemn but to save(John 3:17).
When faced with these type discussions I am drawn to John 8, and the story of the adulterous woman. She meets Jesus in verses 1-10, he facilitates her redemption. It is only after that, that He says, "go and sin no more." Jesus points out that the only way they can take it upon themselves to "punish" the woman, is if they are completely without sin. They weren't and neither are we. We are fighting people who don't know Him, because they are not following Him? His birth, life, teaching, miracles, death, burial, and resurrection mean nothing to them, let alone the Bible. Until they KNOW HIM they will continue to war against us by flaunting their bad behavior, mocking our every belief, and daring us to stop them. When they meet Him, they will war against themselves(1st Peter 2:11). "Do I need to quit all my bad habits, and sinful behaviors to come to know Christ?" Is the wrong question, and "Yes" is the wrong answer. Jesus paid the price for sinners like you and me. Don't leave the spreading the good news of Christ to the pastor in favor of proving your point about bad behavior, the negative effect thereof, and its modification through morality training. He has called us to "Go and make disciples"(Matthew 28:19) THEN teach them how to act as Christians.(Matthew 20:20)
"How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?"-Romans 3:14
SPREAD THE GOSPEL-JOHN 3:16
Leave the behavior modification to the Holy Spirit.
Dusty
Wisdom
Every time I am asked to pray, I think of the old fellow who always prayed, 'Lord, prop us up on our leanin' side.' After hearing him pray that prayer many times, someone asked him why he prayed that prayer so fervently.
He answered, 'Well sir, you see, it's like this....
I got an old barn out back.
It's been there a long time, it's withstood a lot of weather, it's gone through a lot of storms, and it's stood for many years.
It's still standing.
But one day I noticed it was leaning to one side a bit.
So I went and got some pine poles and propped it up on it's leaning side so it wouldn't fall.
Then I got to thinking about that and how much I was like that old barn.
I've been around a long time.
I've withstood a lot of life's storms.
I've withstood a lot of bad weather in life, I've withstood a lot of hard times, and I'm still standing, too.
But I find myself leaning to one side from time to time,
so I like to ask the Lord to prop us up on our leaning side, 'cause I figure a lot of us get to leaning at times.
Sometimes we get to leaning toward anger, leaning toward bitterness, leaning toward hatred,
leaning toward cussing, leaning toward jealousy, leaning toward revenge, leaning toward a lot of things that we shouldn't.
So we need to pray, 'Lord, prop us up on our leaning side, so we will stand straight and tall again, to glorify the Lord.''
"In God we trust!"
There are 3 kinds of people,
People who make things happen,
People who watch things happen,
And people who wonder what happened!
"Every Man Shares in Evangelism, Mission, and Spiritual Life"
United Methodist Men shall be a creative, supportive fellowship of men who seek to know Jesus Christ, to grow spiritually and to seek daily his will. Our primary purpose is to declare the centrality of Christ in the lives of men and in all their relationships.
.
Contact us at:
7420 Clapp's Chapel Road
Corryton, TN 37721
Phone:
(865)687-4721
Email - rgdtennessee@gmail.com
Cradling Us
Wednesday, March 14
your body and make us whole. Amen. ~Lynette Johnson
Read: John 11:1-12:11
In late 1992, having been through a miscarriage, I was thrilled and terrified
to find myself pregnant again. Complications began early, and my
doctor told me I had likely lost the baby, “but come in for one last ultrasound,
anyway, so we’ll know what to do next”. Two doctors and a technician
were in the room with me for that ultrasound. For agonizing minutes
they looked and listened for signs of life. “I’m so sorry,” they told me,
shaking their heads and looking away. Then, as the technician made one
last sweep, static appeared on the monitor… and then a low, rapid sound:
“ker-thump, ker-thump”. There was not a dry eye to be found, as we all
listened to the steady, blessed beat of my son’s heart. Living proof? Without
question. Our faith, in this season of Lent, is about finding hope,
when evidence points only to despair; about following a path through
darkness to light we cannot imagine; about living through sorrow and
reaching for joy. In our moments of deepest sadness, our Savior is with us,
steady and blessed, cradling us with his body, longing to make us whole.
Prayer:
Too often, Blessed Lord, we give up and give in to darkness, to despair, and
to sorrow. Help us to be still and silent in those uncomfortable and painful places in
this season. Open our tear-filled eyes to find you there with us, for us. Cradle us with
your body and make us whole. Amen. ~Lynette Johnson
The Spirit is Manifested
Monday, March 12
who brought his lunch of five loaves and two fish to Jesus to help feed the
in our lives every day. Amen. ~The Rev. Dr. Nora Ramirez
Read: 1 Corinthians 12:7
As Chaplain and Bible Teacher at an inner city mission school, I often
asked students to act out a story for the weekly chapel service. One year I
assigned one of the 6th grade "trouble makers" the role of the little boy
who brought his lunch of five loaves and two fish to Jesus to help feed the
hungry crowd of 5000 people. The disciples were not at all sure where
they could find food for all the people, and this little boy volunteered his
lunch. The 12-year-old in my class really enjoyed his role as the child willing
to share his food. He played it beautifully. However, the results after
the play were the living proof to me of Jesus' influence to change lives.
This boy had been the ringleader of many "incidents" leading to confusion
and chaos in the classroom. From the day that he played the boy sharing
his food, he never caused any further challenges. In fact, he became the
leader by good examples. Just playing that role was living proof to him
that he could be active in a positive way as a class leader.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank you for challenging us by your example to be leaders in our
homes, communities and daily lives. This Lenten season help us to be open to the manifestation
of your Holy Spirit so that we have opportunities to see the living proof of Jesus
in our lives every day. Amen. ~The Rev. Dr. Nora Ramirez
Relying on God
Sunday, March 11
o Lord, and I rely upon you. Amen. ~Bozh Lubovnik
Read: 2 Corinthians 1:8-11
For most of my early adult life, I was an ambitious young man who
principally pursued my own desires and interests. I had been told for so
long that I was very smart, and I believed it. I was told I had excellent
communication skills that would serve me well, and I was sure of it. An
older professional colleague of mine told me that he was sure I would succeed
at anything I attempted to do. A woman told me that I was very
good looking, and I loved that. Yes, I had great strengths and abilities that
would take me far in life. Years later I found myself drowning in the consequences
of bad decisions I had made; broken relationships I had left
behind; self-destructive addictions that had consumed me. I came to believe
that I was untrustworthy and that I could not even trust myself. It
was only then, when I didn’t know who to trust anymore, that I began to
rely on the strength of the Lord. In my weakness and in my surrender,
God’s strength lifted me. The brokenness of my life was healed and I was
strong in the strength of Christ, who was and is there for me and for you.
Prayer:
Gracious God, thank you for being my strength, for I have none. Thank you
for bringing hope and blessings, for I have no capacity to bring them. I am yours,
o Lord, and I rely upon you. Amen. ~Bozh Lubovnik
A Life Changed
Saturday, March 10
with Him for all eternity in Heaven. Also, I no longer have to live in my
to receive by grace through faith, your precious gift, Jesus Christ. Amen. ~Debbie Jones
Read: 2 Corinthians 5:17
When I ask myself the question, “What is my living proof of Jesus
Christ?” my answer would be when I received Christ as my Savior. He
made me a new creation in Him. The old is gone forever and the new has
come! Praise the Lord! I thank God that even though I am a sinner, He
demonstrated His love for me by giving His Son to die for me and forgave
me of all my sins. Because of His life, death, and resurrection, I will be
with Him for all eternity in Heaven. Also, I no longer have to live in my
own strength. As I read the Word of God and get it down in my heart, I
can depend each day on the Holy Spirit’s strength and guidance for my
life. What glorious proof that the living Christ changes lives forever! I am
so thankful that I am a life changed! If you have not received Christ as
your Savior, now is the time my friend! Become “A Life Changed”.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank you so much for making it possible for a sinner, such as I,
to receive by grace through faith, your precious gift, Jesus Christ. Amen. ~Debbie Jones
Have Mercy on Me, O God
Friday, March 9
Christ. Amen. ~Nate Rauh
Read: Psalm 51:1-17
For me, Lent often comes at a perfect time for a new start. Memories
of failed New Year’s resolutions are still fresh enough that, I think if God
will wipe the slate clean just one more time, I can take another shot at
‘getting my stuff together’ – at renewing that spiritual fervor, nipping that
pesky sin, acting out that conviction. It’s a theology of “try harder.” This
season– when Christians remember the God who loved us all the way to
the cross – becomes a self-improvement regiment. Not in Psalm 51.
David’s contrite prayer calls upon a God who goes far beyond merely giving
us one more chance. David and God both know that David needs
more than a fresh start; he needs a God whose mercy upholds his life. He
needs a God who is mercy. When we read this psalm of Israel, we are
invited to surrender to God our whole selves. We are invited to gaze on
Jesus, the one who has already prayed this prayer for us and who
is God’s
answer to this prayer. We are freed to look with joy upon
His merciful
work. And when we are so freed, we can see Jesus’ surprising and subtle
work in the world, in our neighbors and even in our lives.
Prayer:
Merciful Lord, in this time of Lent, turn us toward your prayer for us, Jesus
Christ. Amen. ~Nate Rauh
Look Up
Thursday, March 8
moving way. As Alfred Ackley wrote in the refrain of his famous
~The Rev. Charlie Stribula
Read: Genesis 15:5
I see Jesus working every day, although sometimes more clearly. On
one such occasion, I was in bed anxiously praying for a word of assurance
concerning my family. I distinctly heard a voice say
“get up, go outside in the
sun, and look up.”
Rather than think about what these words meant, I leapt
out of bed in hopeful expectancy, quickly dressed, and rushed outside. As
my eyes adjusted to the light, I was moved to look to my left. There I saw
a bell tower rising above the tree line, with four bells, framed vertically in
the tower’s structure. In them, I immediately recognized my wife, our two
sons, and myself, all held together through life’s various storms, by
Christ’s strong hands. To those passing by, my slack-jawed countenance
probably didn’t register. Yet I experienced God that morning in a profoundly
moving way. As Alfred Ackley wrote in the refrain of his famous
hymn (
“He Lives”), “You ask me how I know he lives? He lives within my heart.”
And ultimately, that is where I see Jesus at work the most...charming my
fears while sanctifying my heart.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, During this time of Lenten reflection, lift up our eyes to You, the
source of all light, and show us that You are indeed with us. Amen.
~The Rev. Charlie Stribula
Miracle Vision
Wednesday, March 7
day. Amen. ~Johannes Amberg
Read: John 6:1-14
As a young youth ministry leader in Germany I struggled mightily with
reconciling faith and intellect. I tried hard to understand how Jesus could
feed five thousand with only five loaves and two fish. So, when I lead my
first devotion on that text for the confirmands, I tried to explain to them
somewhat along the lines of: There were people who felt a spiritual hunger
and Jesus preached so mightily that they felt fulfilled with his words, so
much that they forgot all about their physical needs, isn't that wonder
enough? It was my test by the Lord and I failed as miserably as Philip did.
I later realized that it comes down to this: Can I believe that this Jesus rose
from the grave and conquered death? Because if he did that – and he did!-
truly feeding 5000 people with scarce food seems like child play against it.
Prayer:
Lord, give me eyes to see the miracles you do and a heart to praise them every
day. Amen. ~Johannes Amberg
The Good Work of SoSA
Tuesday, March 6
Harvest of Hope event. The Society of St. Andrew and our volunteers are
thousand’s of volunteers who follow your plan. Amen. ~The Rev. Jennifer Vestal Moore
Read: Leviticus 19:9
Undoubtedly when I am speaking about the good work of the Society
of St. Andrew, someone will hear the word gleaning and upon its explanation
will comment, “Wow! Where did SoSA come up with that great
idea?” Since the beginning of written history, God instructed farmers not
to harvest the edges of their fields so that the poor may glean food to feed
their families. The Society of St. Andrew is proud to live out God’s plan
by joining in this age-old tradition. From its humble beginnings, the founders
of SoSA have been an amazing example of Christ at work in the
world; by living together in Christian community, inviting neighbors and
passersby to their home to share in the Eucharist, and sacrificing much of
the material world so that others could eat. I see living proof of Christ
with each gleaning, devotion written, sermon preached, potato drop, and
Harvest of Hope event. The Society of St. Andrew and our volunteers are
able to feed God’s hungry children with the abundance of food that God
provided not because of what we have done, but because of what God has
done and empowers us to do by simply living out our faith.
Prayer:
Gracious God, Thank you for the work of the Society of St. Andrew and
thousand’s of volunteers who follow your plan. Amen. ~The Rev. Jennifer Vestal Moore
In the Face of a Child
Monday, March 5
Prayer: God, Thank you for all of your wonderful gifts. Amen. ~The Rev. Marty Martin
Read: Ephesians5:8-14
On the 15th of March 1986, my daughter Carroll was born. Having a
child in our home brought many new discoveries. There were the dangers
that adults never see – steps to fall down, doors to slam shut, and electric
sockets to name just a few. There was a constant need for attention and
teaching. Yes, we saw and experienced things in a new light. Everywhere
we went, we were beaming. Our friends, even strangers, were excited for
us. We loved sharing our story with anyone and everyone we encountered.
But as the days went on, things became routine. We began to take
things for granted and, alas, we were not beaming as we had. There was
nothing any less special about what had happened, but somehow, in the
turmoil of everyday life, we had lost the glimmer and had forgotten the
importance of the gift we had been given. That is not to say that the
love or joy was gone – just that we were not radiating it as we did at first.
Maybe all the days of our lives we should look at the gifts we are given
with an understanding that they are gifts from God. Maybe if we remember
Christ’s sacrifice for us, then we will see the grace that comes to us
each day and allows us to let Christ shine through our words and actions.
Prayer: God, Thank you for all of your wonderful gifts. Amen. ~The Rev. Marty Martin
Putting Others First
Sunday, March 4
and your life in the ways that I live. In Jesus’ name. Amen. ~J.J. Williamson
Read: John 1:14-18
I grew up in the church, from infancy to adulthood, and yet I always
had a hard time understanding who Jesus really was. I had heard all the
Bible stories of Jesus, had read many of them myself. Jesus, as depicted
in the Bible, was a very compelling figure, I thought. But it always felt
abstract. These were stories of events that happened in a time and a place
that was very different than the place and time I knew. King Jesus seemed
no more real to me than King Arthur. It wasn’t until I began to set aside
the self-interest and self-focus of childhood that I began to know who
Jesus really was. In being able to offer love to another person, I experienced
the giving love of Christ. In becoming a father, I experienced the
miracle of new life through God. In being able to give time and talent and
treasures to the needs of others, I experienced the sacrificial presence of
Jesus. Jesus Christ has taken on flesh and blood in my life in the ways I
have learned to put other people first and to live in accordance with his
purpose for me.
Prayer:
Lord God Immanuel, you have given us life that we might offer it to others.
Empower me to greater things by using me to offer your hope, your blessings, your light,
and your life in the ways that I live. In Jesus’ name. Amen. ~J.J. Williamson
The Hand of a Servant
Saturday, March 3
you have just observed and I have been renewed, enriched and challenged
marvelous light of resurrection and new life! Amen. ~The Rev. Buzz Moore
Read: Psalm 51:1-17
It was a late March evening, just before dusk, as I stood on a bridge
across the Rhine River in South West Germany. The days of Lent were
rapidly moving to Good Friday and Easter. Depressed and lonely, mesmerized
by the water below, I began pondering life’s meaning and purpose.
Suddenly a hand touched my shoulder and a voice spoke to me in
German, asking if I was ok. Our conversation continued until the voice
said, “look.” As I turned and looked across the water, lights danced everywhere
as the city of Mannheim had gone from dusk, to darkness, to light!
The voice said to me: “I’ve stood here many evenings and watched what
you have just observed and I have been renewed, enriched and challenged
when my life moved from dusk, to darkness, and then to light!” My eyes
fixed on the beauty of a skyline, fully glowing with light, I began to recall
some words a Sunday School teacher shared: (John 12:36) “Put your trust
in the light while you have it, so that you may become children of light.”
No! The hand on my shoulder was not literally the hand of God, except
that it came through one of God’s servants using her hands to touch
someone depressed and lonely!
Prayer:
May the days of Lent engulf us with thoughts about how you, O God in the
gift of Your Son, travel with us in our dusk and darkness and bring us into the
marvelous light of resurrection and new life! Amen. ~The Rev. Buzz Moore
Every Moment
Friday, March 2
Amen. ~The Rev. Joe Phipps
Read: Psalm 46
In tuition paid with money found in an “empty” special fund. In the
face of a shy child who asks the congregation to sing “Twinkle, Twinkle”
as our closing Christmas carol. In a prayer-filled woman who is told the
large “spots” found in her annual mammogram are gone a week later. In
the peaceful face of a man who died of cancer that same month. In the
many times God has “filled the gap” between what I preached and what
He wanted others to hear. In a seemingly haphazard children’s Christmas
play that speaks the “Good News of great joy” as eloquently as any wellprepared
sermon. In a family of deer moving through a cemetery bringing
a quiet awe and wonder to Easter sunrise. In a worship service held in a
cement-floor, tin-roof “barn” that was as grand as any cathedral. In the
hospice patients who have encouraged me as much – or more – than I
have encouraged them. In the “a-ha” moments at summer camp as young
people begin to grasp God’s amazing love. In the children’s crayon art
that fills my office wall. In my wife who willingly left her family several
thousand miles behind because God led her husband to Iowa. In a son
born after hope of having children seemed gone. Where have I seen Jesus
at work in the world? Where haven’t I?
Prayer:
Lord, help us to remember that, as Creator God, You can be found in every
moment of our lives. Teach us, once again, to be still and know that You are God.
Amen. ~The Rev. Joe Phipps
A Daughter’s Gift
Thursday, March 1
Read: Matthew 18:1-4
There are moments in a parent’s life when they realize that their childunderstands life so much better then themselves. Unfortunately, for me, I
realized it last year when my oldest daughter was only nine. Mackenzie
won a costume contest and the prize was a gift certificate to the local
movie theater. She was so excited by this gift; it was a most precious treasure
to her. For the next several weeks we tried to find a time and a movie
that the whole family could go to. Being a family of six it was hard. So,
Mackenzie stored her gift certificate in a special place where she was sure
not to lose it. Christmas rolled around and we all became absorbed in holiday
preparations. I awoke on Christmas morning, like many parents, excited
to watch my children unwrap their gifts. Children’s unhindered expressions
of joy are priceless. In the midst of the wrapping paper being
shredded, my nine year old daughter hands me a folded piece of paper. I
opened the paper, a note written by her, which read “Mom and Dad, I
wanted to get you something bigger and better but this is all that I have.
Merry Christmas! I Love You Mackenzie.” Folded up in this precious note
was her gift card to the movies. Her precious treasure she freely and gladly
gave away.
I see God in the gift from a nine year old.
Mackenzie gave her most precious treasure – gift card.
God gave His most precious treasure – His Son.
Jesus gave His most precious treasure – His life.
Prayer:
Lord, help us receive and embrace your most precious treasure. May we give
you our most precious treasure. Amen. ~Scott Briggs
Potlucks
Wednesday, February 29
Read: Joshua 24:14-27
On a cozy Saturday afternoon, while preparing pies, I enjoyed a conversationwith a woman who had Alzheimer’s disease. We tumbled through
topics and as I docked the dough, crimped the crust, and preheated the
oven our conversation fell on potlucks. She loved potlucks. She enjoyed
the food, faith, and fellowship. She shared with me the key to her success
at potlucks: desserts! I love potlucks, in Lent especially. They show Jesus
at work in the world filling stomachs and souls. I appreciate how much
church is found in potlucks, showing the richness and potential of covenanting.
We share stories, food, and laughter as the body of Christ. We
show our connection to each other, as a people of God the Father—we
show Jesus here working in the world continuing the salvation story begun
in Genesis through the time of Joshua; unending even through today. We
celebrate as we join Joshua in pointing to God the Father’s triumph in the
world.
Prayer:
Father God, you speak faithfulness to your people. Help us throughout Lent
to live and hear your covenant with us; because we know your covenant is the way we
become your church, we become the body of Christ at work in the world. As your
church, we serve and fear you, living sincerely, through you, your Son, and your Spirit.
Amen. ~The Rev. Pete Geoffrion
Rear View Mirror
Tuesday, February 28
~The Rev. Dr. Sam Ramirez
Read: Joshua 1:9
Stock boy, student, salesman, summer missionary, army medic, high
school teacher, college professor, consultant, pastor, hospital chaplain –
this is what I see when I look in the rear view mirror of my life. I wonder
how it all works for what God wants for my life. In retrospect, I can see
how God’s hand was at work in my life, guiding me in each of these experiences
that I was gaining in preparation to serve Him. Many times we
do not see how all of our life’s experiences have any meaning, as if they
were disjointed, but they are all part of a big jigsaw puzzle. As I look into
the rear view mirror of my life, I can see how they all fit into my life’s picture
in fulfilling God’s purpose if I trust Him and am obedient to His
Word. God has promised that He will be with us wherever we go.
Prayer:
Guiding God, as we travel through this Lenten season, help us see how Jesus
is still at work in our lives and in our world. Help us to be obedient. Amen.
~The Rev. Dr. Sam Ramirez
A Spectacular Love
Monday, February 27
Read: Psalm 68:19
Recently, when my husband and I took a work team trip to Ethiopia,
we saw God at work. Our mission was to learn about the need for clean
water, schools, and food. We learned that worldwide the need for food is
the same. When Jesus overturned the money changer’s tables, I think he
was charging all of us to overturn our ideas about greed and entitlement to
“get what we deserve.” So often we forget to remember what and how
much we have! Kids and families across this country and throughout the
world go to bed hungry every night. We can help. We can stop saying “I
want” and “I need!” We can stop thinking that the life we live is something
“we deserve” because we are special. We have been exceptionally
blessed and we need to give in exceptional ways! Jesus died so we would
remember the kind of love that changes hearts and lives, and how one
small act of giving can ripple around the world. Jesus’ love pulls us to
respond to the hurts. We are the proof that His love is alive!
Prayer:
Lord, we consecrate ourselves to your spectacular style of love, that of meeting
the needs of others. Thank you for your life of love. Lead us to follow you ever more
closely during this week. Amen. ~Lesley Green Huffaker
Being the Body Together
Sunday, February 26
Read: 1 Corinthians 12:27
Years ago, as my friend’s father was dying, she learned many of his
darkest secrets. It was as if, in his hospital bed, he had no choice but to
confess, and confess he did. He told of the many times he had cheated on
her mother. He described his shady business dealings. He told of the ways
that he had ignored the needs of family and friends while indulging his
own wants. My friend was devastated --- so many secrets, so much pain,
such deep wounds. Now when she talks about that time in her life, she
talks about the pain of going to worship. She couldn’t pray; there were no
words. She couldn’t sing; there was no melody within. All she could do
was go to church and sit and cry. But in that season of life, she was carried
by the words and the faith of others. They prayed her prayers for her; they
sang her hymns; they gave voice to the creed … until she could find her
voice again. That is what Christian community does, what the Body of
Christ looks like. Sometimes, we have no words and our faith is thin, and
we get carried by others. More often, though, we get to be hope for others
and living proof of a Loving God.
Prayer:
May we always do that work in faith and with hope. Amen.
~The Rev. Nathan Kirkpatrick
Jesus at Work Today
Saturday, February 25
“bread” alone but by your word that sustains and comforts us. Amen. ~Stella Carson
Read: Psalm 22:26
Through all manners of denominations, organizations, and relationships
one can find Jesus at “practice and work” today; The Society of St.
Andrew puts forward this observance of Jesus by feeding the hungry
worldwide. Let us venture to observe by celebrating Easter, by our love
and willingness to share our food, resources, and time in the interest of
others. Lent is a time of prayer, fasting, self-examination, and alms giving.
Thus an opportunity for shaping and molding a new year of unselfish generosities—
what a beautiful practice, which each one of us can partake by
entering in the spirit of “resurrection.” A resurrection from one’s selfish
desires, wishes, and wants.
Prayer:
Our Father during this time of Lent, comfort those who are lonely, tired and
hungry—not only physically hungry but spiritually hungry as well. May we not live by
“bread” alone but by your word that sustains and comforts us. Amen. ~Stella Carson
Send Me
Friday, February 24
Read: Isaiah 6:8
Have you ever felt that Heavenly nudge? I have, but this time it was
different. My wife and I visited a friend in ICU who had fallen and was
unconscious for days, we offered prayers for his recovery. The doctors
thought he only had days to live. His son who was stationed in Okinawa
was called home. Yet, his dad continued to hold on to life for 20 more
days. Again, we were nudged to go to the hospital. While we were alone
with my friend, I once again offered a prayer. A nudge told me to call
upon the Holy Spirit and I did. When Jesus ascended, after His resurrection,
He left the Holy Spirit to be a living presence in our lives. I didn’t
touch my friend, but passed my hand over his head asking the Holy Spirit
to come, rest on him, and bring his healing power. That afternoon my
friend responded for the first time, in over a month, to his wife. He has a
long way to go and may never be at his previous level. But his life is an
example of God’s continuing work in the world. I know my friend will
continue to encourage others and lead by word and example. When we
are nudged, we need to respond.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, remind us daily that we are your hands, and the nudges
you send are for us, to do your will, for your children. Amen. ~Fred Martin
Let the Children Come-Do Not Stop Them
Thursday, February 23Read: Matthew 19:13-15About two years ago our church began a ministry that reaches out to
instead of your grace-filled purpose. Amen. ~The Rev. Jeffry J. Roberts
families we have not reached before, most of whom were previously unchurched.
This, of course, is what the church should be doing, but it also
poses challenges that can be difficult. Children who have not grown up in
the church don’t always behave in the ways everyone would like. A few
church members expressed concerns to me about the behavior of these
children. Still, as I walked into our fellowship hall recently, three young
children from one of these families ran up to me with great big smiles, the
joy shining from their faces, yelling “Pastor!” Their excitement at seeing
me is not something I often experience in the church. One by one, they
each gave me a big hug. They were delighted to be in the church (just
imagine that!) for they knew that they were loved in the church. In that
moment, I saw Jesus in their faces and I felt the Lord’s touch as they
hugged me. He truly is at work in their lives.
Prayer:
Gracious God, thank you for showing us your presence among us. You invite
all your children into your life. Forgive us for resisting and for seeking our own expectations
instead of your grace-filled purpose. Amen. ~The Rev. Jeffry J. Roberts
Lord, Through These Forty Days of Lenten Vigil
Wednesday, February 22
Read: Psalm 51:1-17
Lord, through these forty days of Lenten vigil,
Help us to see the price of all our sin.
Teach us how prayer makes strong a faith that’s fragile;
Help us confront our sinfulness within.
Show us the cross that Jesus bore to save us-
Then change our hearts, and let that change begin!
Help us to walk the servant’s way with Jesus,
To see past self, to care for others’ need.
Help us put down the worldly things that please us,
To reach the outcasts with a kindly deed.
Then may the meaning of Christ’s passion seize us
Leading to resurrection hope indeed!
~The Rev. Stephen Hassmer
Prayer:
God, you led your people of old through the wilderness and brought them to
the promised land. Guide us that we may always walk with you. Amen.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)