February 29, 2008

A Lenten Devotion

Read Proverbs 31:10-31

When I was four years old, I decided that I didn't want to go to Sunday School any more. Since my family was not a church-going family, I was allowed to quit Sunday School.

When I married Evelyn Jean Crooker in her family's church, that was the first time I was in a church since I was four years old.

After we were married, church was never mentioned. She knew that I had not been going to church, so she never mentioned the subject. We had been married for about two years when we got into Square Dancing with some friends. One of the ladies happened to be a member of the Grosse Pointe United Methodist Church, and told us there was going to be a Square Dance there. We couldn't miss that, so we went. During one of the breaks, I went to get her a cup of tea. She was having a conversation with a man, and when I got to them, she introduced him. I knew I was in trouble because he was Pastor White. Nothing more was said that evening.

Tuesday evening we had a visit from Pastor White. He came into our home and we talked about what I don't remember, but when he left, Evelyn said that she would like us to join his church. Now I could not say no to anything she wanted to do. The next Sunday, we were members of the church.

It wasn't long before Evelyn was in the United Methodist Women, and seemed to be interested in what they were doing.

She became interested in what was going on in the church. When we joined, there were folding chairs in the sanctuary, and after a bit, they were asking for donations for pews. Soon there were pews in the church. I said to her one Sunday, “The new pews are nice.”

She then said, “We paid for two of them.” It was nice to know, even if it was after the fact.

Now Jack Mannschreck came to the church, and Evelyn and I became good friends with him. He was involved with the children in the church, and he had started a program for children and he asked me if I would help him with it. Once a week the children would gather at the church, and Jack and I would have some kind of activities for them (play games, build bird houses, build rockets and fire then off in the parking lot). After that, they had dinner. Jack needed table parents for that. Evelyn and I took one table. She always had something extra for the kids. There could e candy, gum, a little toy, but always something. When Jack left to get his church, the kids program was taken over by other people, and we were uncomfortable with it, so we gave it up. I will say that when we were at church on Sundays, one or two of the kids we had at our table would come up and hug Evelyn. It would now take two or three days for the smile to leave her face.

At about this time, there was a new office manager in the church. Evelyn wasn't happy with some of the things that were coming out of the office. She felt that Mary needed help, so she offered. She went into the office at eight and came home after five in the evening. Then, when Mary got sick, Evelyn took over the office until Mary got better. She was trying to save the job for Mary, but it didn't work out. Mary did not get better. She stayed until a new girl was hired, and she got her broken in.

I will say that I had a lot of interesting times in the church, and met a lot of nice people.

The time when the church was planning to have the elevator built, there were two or three people who were against it. That was one time when Evelyn had a lot to say, and she told some people off. People were getting older, and the elevator was needed.

Well,l that is enough of that. Anyone that knew Evelyn I feel was lucky. If you didn't know her, you missed knowing a wonderful person. The only bad part was the fact that to get Evelyn in the church, you had to put up with me.

Norman E. Abey

February 28, 2008

The Last Number Dialed

Read: UMH #395, Take Time to Be Holy

Around 9:30 pm Gary got a new voicemail message. From me. I didn’t call him, so we both looked at Faith expecting a telling smirk. Nope. It was the restaurant where we had dinner that night. They had found my cell phone, and Gary’s number was the last number I had called. They found me because of who I talked to last. In my case it’s also who I talk to the most (but I was grateful he happened to be the last call that day).

Our cell phones and e-mails all keep a record of who we talk to – and even what we say. I’m OK with that because mine are all pretty tame. (My mother told me at a very young age that you should never write anything down that you don’t want the whole world to read.) What if there were a record of how often we talked to God – and what we say. If there were records of my thoughts, would people know I was a Christian? Do I talk to God as often as I call Gary? I loved the idea that a restaurant could find me because I called my husband. I also love the idea that I can always be “found” by calling on God. Maybe I should add Him to my contact list in my cell phone.


Thought for the day: Who do you talk to last? Or most?

Prayer: Dear God, In these days of constant communication, help us remember that we don’t need a cell phone or e-mail to reach you. Thank you for being with us at all times and help us keep you first place in our hearts and minds. Amen.

Jacki Rumpp

February 27, 2008

... to sit around a Table ...

Read Matthew 18:20

Now that Ross and Ben are both at college, Greg and I are empty nesters. Since I was active at their schools, I expected to miss the concerts, musicals and many volunteer opportunities – and I have.

But I also knew that as much as going to college has been a growth experience for our sons, their transition could be a growth experience for me, too. I resolved to get involved in activities that I had put on the back burner during those hectic years when the kids were home. I wasn’t going to fill up my newly free time by spending it in front of the TV.

Developing friendships with other women was at the top of my list. I have two brothers – no sisters – and I’ve always felt I was missing out on that special bond sisters seem to have. So I decided to join the Doris White circle of the United Methodist Women, which was ideal because we meet at night and I work during the day. I also signed up for an evening UMW book study.

I’m always glad when I’ve gone to a circle meeting, even though I sometimes have to push myself to get there after a long day of work. The programs are always uplifting. For example, in January, Noelle Landin shared photos from the trip to Israel, and we also packed Valentine bags for the Friendly Visitors. And of course, being Methodists, the food is wonderful.

The book study has been a greater challenge, but in a positive way. If I don’t show up for circle, I can be confident that enough members will be there to enjoy the meeting. But if I don’t get to the Monday night book study, there’s a good chance it won’t go on, because it’s just the three of us: Karen Bromley, Anne Sullivan, and me.

We are small in number, but we’ve had some wonderful discussions, and I’ve really enjoyed getting to know Anne and Karen. In a world of so much divisiveness, it’s been extraordinarily comforting to sit around a table with other Methodist women and share our reflections.

“The Spirit of the Lord shall come upon you in power. . . and you will be changed into a different person.” 1 Samuel 10:6

Kathy Gardner

February 26, 2008

Promises, Promises

Read Deuteronomy 7:6-9, Hebrews 13:8, UM Hymnal #396

With the Political Season well under weigh, it's easy to think that promises are really nothing more than empty sales pitches.

• “Vote for me and everyone will have a job and a big raise!”
• “A chicken in every pot!”
• “Peace in our time!”

Pretty discouraging, isn't it?
Why do we put up with it? Why do we reward the next batch of soon-to-be-broken promises with our votes? Haven't we learned that people break promises?

Now consider this list of promises:

• Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.
• For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. For "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."
• Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.

What's the difference? Both promise the world and more, but these promises we can trust, because of Who it is making them.

After all, Jesus keeps His promises. The Lord is the same yesterday, today, and forever – faithful and just to forgive and empower us through the Holy Spirit.

Hey, there's a huge added bonus. When we have the Holy Spirit in us, we now can live by Him – we can call upon the power of God to help us to keep the promises we make.

I'm thinking of the promises we make at a baptism, whether we're being baptized, bringing our children, or just in the congregation. Or the same kinds of promises we make at confirmation. Or the promises we make at our weddings.

Each time there's a baptism, we're reminded that we've promised to raise children, keeping them within the guidance of the church. We're reminded each time there's a confirmation that we also promised to renounce evil and to live for Jesus. Each wedding remindes us that we promised to forsake all others, to love one another in sickness and health, for richer for poorer, all that stuff.

In each of these promises, we haven't just promised God and each other that we'll keep them, we've asked God to help us to do so – to empower us, through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, to keep the promises we have made. And He will. As long as we're willing to allow Him to help, He will. And He does.

You know, it's not always easy, living for God and keeping our promises,
but it's always a Joy.

Charlie van Becelaere

February 25, 2008

Celebration Time

Are you hurting? Pray. Do you feel great? Sing. Are you sick? Call the church leaders together to pray and anoint you with oil in the name of the Master. Believing-prayer will heal you, and Jesus will put you on your feet. And if you've sinned, you'll be forgiven – healed inside and out.
Make this your common practice: confess you sins to each other and pray for each other so that you can live together whole and healed. The prayer of a person living right with God is something powerful to be reckoned with.
- James 5:13-16 The Message

I long have wondered how people existed without a church family. Not, I am not sure that I would want to be anointed with oil, I am certain that I would have difficulty confessing my sins to my fellow church members. But I am very sure and certain that our church family has seen Ken and me through several difficult situations.

I firmly believe that prayers helped to bring our grandson safely home from Iraq in December (a very Merry Christmas for our family). Thank you for that support. Thank you for the support given to Ken and me during the Fall months following my extensive back surgery. With the help of an excellent surgeon, who acknowledges God's presence in the operating room, with your prayers, through Jesus, I literally have been put back on my feet. From our church family there were so many cards and notes of good wishes, visits, phone calls, gifts. The meals that were brought to the house helped to sustain us, body, mind, and soul. All were offered with love: the love that comes to us through others from the Father.

Returning to Sunday Worship after eight weeks absence was a renewing experience. Warm welcomes, hugs, further good wishes, made for a loving reunion. We see this family in action all during the year – giving, helping, crying, laughing, and of course praying. There are many different types of needs to which the response is quick and great. Some witnessed to this response during “Celebration Time” at the Annual Church Conference.

Sometimes the need is not easily known, but according to James, each person should reach out in need or reach out to help those in need.


Loving, Giving God, I thank you for the love that comes from you through my Church Family. Help me to respond to needs, returning a portion of that love. AMEN.

Carol Ann Maleitzke

February 23, 2008

Why Not Me, God?

Read Hebrews 10:19-25

When Bill asked me to present at the morning service as part of the Gift of Faith, I thought to myself, “Why Me God”…I don’t have a story.

Then I reconsidered and said to myself, “Why Not Me God” …I do have a story to tell about my faith, as all of you do.

I come from a long line of Methodists -- great grandparents, grandparents and parents. I have been a Methodist all my life…even though there was an 8-year period where I hardly ever attended Church. I realized after that absence from church, that part of believing in God is not only the way you live your life, but by attending Church and giving of yourself and your talents to fulfill God’s wishes to carry on his word and work. We have all sinned in one way or another, but God will always forgive us and take us under his guidance.

Recently I saw a sign outside a local Church that said, “Build a good foundation, so that you can endure the storms of life.” And I truly believe that.

Many of you remember a little over 6 years ago when our then 34-year-old daughter had given birth to her second son. Everything that could go wrong did go wrong and our daughter, Jami, passed away within five hours of giving birth. Our grandson, Cameron was born perfectly healthy. Someone said to me after it happened, “When God closes a door, he opens a window.” I firmly believe that if it had not been for my basic belief in God and strong faith, I never would have survived this tragedy. This was the worst storm of our life and we got through it. Our family, friends and Church made it possible for us to go on. The people of this Church are compassionate and still inquire about our daughter’s family…who by the way is doing very well.

All of us have had tragedy in our lives…some more than others. Often this makes us a stronger, more understanding person. I say all this, but without the guidance and help from God, I do not believe it is possible to mend mentally or physically. A child should never pass on before a parent!!

Because I firmly believe that we should all give of our resources, talents and skills to this Church, I would like to share a poem (author unknown) published in the UMW newsletter about a year ago. I have referred to this many times.

Karen Leigh

IT DOESN’T MATTER

It doesn’t matter
How much you have
But How Much You’ve
Shared
With Others

It doesn’t matter
What kind of house you have
But Whether Your
Love
Has made It A Home


It doesn’t matter
How many friends
You can count,
But How Many
Friends
You Can Count on

It doesn’t matter
How well you do in life,
But How Much
Good
You do.

It doesn’t matter
How much love you
Have gathered,
But How Much You’ve
Given
Away.

(Author Unknown)

February 22, 2008

Sign Says…

“Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it. Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway.” Proverbs 8:33-34

We’ve all heard the one about the man who climbs to his roof in the flood and prays to God to be saved. He refuses mortal assistance three times while waiting for Divine intervention. After the man perishes he asks God why he didn’t save him, only to have God reply, “I sent you two boats and a helicopter….”

As Christians, our lives are devoted to faith in God, communicating through prayer and looking for ‘signs’ that are God’s responses, answers or direction. For years I too wondered what signs those were. How was God going to communicate to me? Would I recognize it when it came by? A burning bush would be nice and obvious, but I haven’t heard of any such occurrences lately.

My ‘a-ha’ moment came a number of years ago. Fresh out of college, figuring out life on my own, I was struggling with my confidence, my self-awareness, and my full independence. I was in the ‘real world’ for all of 9 months, and I felt alone and unsure of myself, as my friends were all moving away and I realized my strength had always been somewhat reliant on having them around. And for the first time in my life, I turned to prayer for strength and guidance.

That’s when the signs started to come. I was gaining the overwhelming sense that I needed to go out West. It was eerie how Seattle started showing up everywhere. I opened a book at a bookstore and the first word on the page that I saw was “Seattle”. I passed a U-Haul truck that had a picture of the famous Space Needle on it. Literature for the University of Washington showed up in my mailbox, without ever having been requested. I took the hint and I made the call.

EJ is an old family friend. He lived next door to us around the time I was transitioning out of rubber pants. He was in school at Notre Dame. We always stayed connected via Christmas and birthday cards. This time we connected via phone, as I called to see if he was available for a visit while I checked out the Northwest.

During my week visiting Seattle, EJ and I spent almost the entire week together and we talked about everything: life, religion, relationships, independence, family. To this day, it’s one of the single most important weeks of my personal journey. And above all, I had the realization that God wasn’t sending me somewhere new to start over, but was trying to give me a nudge to re-connect with a wise, old friend to help me get through a challenging part of my life. The experience strengthened both my faith and my awareness of God’s way of communicating and answering prayers for direction. Though we never truly know God’s plan for us, I believe He intentionally directed me to EJ, knowing the influence and comfort it would provide me.

Ever since, I strive to be mindful of the signs, trying to pay close attention to God’s direction and guidance. Jen and I talk often about how God is trying to help us prioritize our lives or direct our actions. We believe signs led us to each other and directed us to Michigan. And I’m committed to God and to myself to not be the man on the roof.

All of this comes to you thanks to another sign along my path. I have thought about writing a devotional for a couple years, but somehow life (that’s code for “work”) manages to get in the way. Then it happened. I got a sign from God again. Though it may not have seemed like a sign to most, it was for me. It was a personal conversation to me that it was time to put pen to paper, delivered via Charlie. Once again, God provided a gentle nudge to help me prioritize or resolve unmet opportunities.
Thanks, Charlie.

Lord, thank you for the prayers answered and the guidance and direction shared. Please continue to send signs to guide us and remind us of your presence and influence on our lives. Thank you for your patience as we try to read the signs along our journey and serve as ambassadors of your love and compassion. Amen

Reed Bingaman

February 21, 2008

A Devotion of Thanks

Read Psalms 23 and 91

On June 9, 1962, Bud and I transferred our church membership from St. Mark's to the friendly little Methodist Church in Grosse Pointe. We have enjoyed being a part of it, and watching it grow, but always maintaining its friendly and caring ways.

I have long believed that our Lord works through people, and I know that a lot of His workers are in our church family. I know this is true because of the care extended to Bud and me during the past year and a half.

Nothing prepares us for what lies ahead in our lives. Certainly Bud and I had no idea of what was ahead for us health wise. Through it all, however, we had you, our church family, to hold us up with your help in so many ways.

First, there were your prayers and the many phone calls to offer help and express your concerns. Then there were the visits that cheered us up. Also, the many cards and letters that we enjoyed, especially the hand-made one from the Logos kids. Then there was the gift of the beautiful Prayer Quilt that Pastor Bob delivered to us, and that we each wrap around ourselves. The delicious dinners and jars of soup were always enjoyed. We are grateful to the drivers who took us to our doctor's appointments and hospitals. We also appreciated very much the loan of a wheelchair that we each needed to use several times.

Bud and I are both humbled by your caring and generosity, and proud to be members of our friendly, little GPUMC. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts. God bless you all.


Marie Draper

February 20, 2008

New Phone

Read John 14: 15-23

One of my Christmas presents last year was a new cellular phone. The good news is that THIS one doesn’t have a rotary dial. I can just press buttons on this one. The bad news is that it has a multitude of menus - - and each menu has a multitude of sub menus. With all those paths I can’t remember which one leads to what. Each time I go through a pathway to find something, I can’t remember which path I took the last time! This is a Christmas present and Christmas is about Christ so it seems I should be able to find a pathway to God.

That pathway doesn’t exist of course, but I thought back to Christmas Eve at Jacki’s house and Christmas Day and New Years Day at our house - when the whole family was together, and I realized God was smiling on us.

We all realize how blessed we are to have everyone close by. We keep in touch by phone (cellular and otherwise) like families which are separated, but fortunately we see each other during the week and on Sundays in church.

Jack Van Becelaere

February 19, 2008

God’s Providence

Read Psalm 121

The word “providence” does not appear in the Bible, nor is it defined. Webster’s Dictionary defines providence as “divine guidance or care.” I have been examining my faith and trust in God and yet I find myself coming to the concept of providence. It seems that God’s part is to provide and all I have to do is trust – what a great deal for me!

Faith is hard, though. I find myself feeling alone and afraid at times. I am frustrated to feel this way and I feel ungrateful, because when I look at God’s continuous providence in my life, I am overwhelmed.

I know that there has not been a single moment in my life where I could not reach out to someone who genuinely loved me. Mark 16: 15 – 16 says that the purpose of God’s providence is the redemption of humanity and that God works through people who conform to the purpose or will of God. I have experienced this, happily, many times.

One example of God’s working through people in my life has been the presence of Karens and Kathys. Let me explain.

In junior high school, I had fallen in with a wild group of friends who were pushing limits in several areas. I had a sudden falling out with this group and found myself a little lonely. My mom stepped in and introduced me to her friend’s daughter. Delightedly, Karen Button and I became fast friends. She was a popular and wholesome girl. Her best friend was Kathy Klok and we were a happy trio. Those girls were so loving and fun loving – we had a great time through high school. They led me down a whole new track – including MYF and Girl Scouts.

At another point in my life, as a young mother, I repeatedly crossed paths with another Karen. We had so many connections and our kids were just the same ages. Through her, I met Cathie who also had been appearing in my life. Together we began years of fun, support and study, which continues. We camp, read books and practice yoga, and these women have channeled God’s love in so many ways. We were all Girl Scout leaders!

Once again, I found myself feeling a bit alone, at home and at church. Lo and behold, another Karen appears with a big loving heart, a Bible study book and prepared questions to answer! Who joins in our study but Kathy! So again, I am happily embraced and feeling God’s love and providence through the words, presence and actions of a Karen and a Kathy. My faith and trust are restored and my fear is quelled for another day.

Thank you, God, for your providence and your attention to my needs. Thank you for hearts and hands that do your work. Help me to be open to your purpose. Amen

Anne Sullivan

February 18, 2008

Delivering Soup

Read James 2:15-17

It seemed like a simple enough thing to do. "Let's take the left-over soup from the Soup Supper and deliver it to some folks who are shut-in, or just couldn't make it to church," and really, it was a simple enough thing to do.

Heidi and I gathered up the containers of soup, made a quick list of people we'd try, and off we went. Yes, it's a simple thing, delivering soup - until you actually do it.

When you actually make the deliveries; when you see the faces and hear the voices and touch the hands; when you get back in the car and realize that you haven't had so many people ask God's Blessings on you in a long time; that's when you realize.

You realize that when you get out of the car and walk up to the door with those containers, you're not just delivering soup - you're delivering Love.

Charlie van Becelaere


Thank you, Father, for allowing us to be your hands, carrying soup and love to our brothers and sisters in your name.
Amen.

February 16, 2008

Read: this handy little chart -

God has a positive answer for our worries:

You Say	God Says	Bible Verses
You say: “It's impossible.”	God says: All things are possible.	Luke 18:27
You say: “I'm too tired.”	God says: I will give you rest.	Matthew 11:28-30
You say: “Nobody really loves me.”	God says: I love you.	John 3:16, 3:34
You say: “I can't go on.”	God says: My grace is sufficient.	2 Corinthians 12:9, Psalm 91:15
You say: “I can't figure things out.”	God says: I will direct your steps.	Proverbs 3:5-6
You say: “I can't do it.”	God says: You can do all things.	Philippians 4:13
You say: “I'm not able.”	God says: I am able.	2 Corinthians 9:8
You say: “It's not worth it.”	God says: It will be worth it.	Romans 8:28
You say: “I can't forgive myself.”	God says: I forgive you.	1 John 1:9, Romans 8:1
You say: “I can't manage.”	God says: I will supply all your needs	Philippians 4:19
You say: “I'm afraid.”	God says: I have not give you a spirit of fear.	2 Timothy 1:7
You say: “I'm always worried and frustrated.”	God says: Cast all your cares on Me.	1 Peter 5:7
You say: “I'm not smart enough.”	God says: I give you wisdom.	1 Corinthians 1:30
You say: “I feel all alone.”	God says: I will never leave you or forsake you.	Hebrews 13:5

Carolyn Barth

February 15, 2008

Life throws you a curve, God helps keep you steady

Read Acts 2:42-47

For the last few months of 2007, Sue and I concentrated on various options with the direction of our small family-owned company, in-the-family since 1963. We had loyal clientele and good customer service, but the market was tough and changing, and the overhead too much for our existing business model. Cash flow was tight and while we still had a viable company, we had to look to a major change in our operation.

Merging with another company seemed like a logical solution, but some were too big and impersonal; others too steeped in our similar historic business model, yet one seemed just right (yup, just like the three bears). They were 3 times our size; the owners had future vision and thought our company could add value to their operation. As of this writing, it has been two weeks since Nancy Grose (yup, of the famous hardworking GPUMC Grose family) and I have been working with the new company (based in Livonia). Welcoming is a good word to describe their reception of us, and although the software and way of doing things is different, their approach is customer-centric and forward thinking.

How does this apply to GPUMC and a Lenten Devotional? The steadiness and solidness (yeah, it is not perfect, but pretty darn good) of our GPUMC “family” supported Sue and me (even though they did not realize it, you know confidentially is a key to successful mergers). Our various GPUMC connections gave us stability and strength: choir fun and quality; the wonderful members of the Nominating Committee (which I serve as a member and each member's only goal is the continuing betterment of GPUMC); Retreat camaraderie; VIM trip to New Orleans; and various other aspects of our church too numerous to mention.

As we give to God’s church, it gives back, in mysterious and indirect ways, but as genuine as anything in life. Thanks GPUMC for being there in hidden and real ways when we needed it!

Dave DeWitt

February 14, 2008

Strengthened in the Testing

Read: Philippians 4:11-13, Isaiah 40:28-31

I was born into a loving Christian family in Minneapolis, and we were all very active in Hennepin Avenue Methodist Church. I was surrounded by Christian believers who lived their Faith every day (one of whom was Betty Scherer), and they had a great influence on my life.

I continued my walk of Faith when I attended Northwestern University and met and married Pieter. We moved to Grosse Pointe in 1966 and joined Grosse Pointe United Methodist Church in 1967. Here, again, we were warmly welcomed and found ourselves surrounded by people with strong Faith who were dedicated to serving the church. We both became active. Pieter chaired and served on many church committees and taught senior high Sunday school. I taught first grade for 17 years and joined the United Methodist Women where I met many supportive women. We both were counselors for the senior high United Methodist Youth Fellowship (two of our “kids” were Heidi and Charlie Van Becelaere), and we served for five years.

Pieter was diagnosed with M.S. In 1981 and while he took the news valiantly, I had a real struggle with what I knew were the consequences of this disease. I thought that the path that lay ahead of us looked very dark. How would we manage, and would I be able to care for Pieter at home?

That was the beginning of God's testing my Faith. As Pieter's condition worsened and he lost the use of his legs, his ability to speak, and finally total paralysis, I learned that I needed to rely on God. I prayed for strength and the Holy Spirit answered me. The message came through loud and clear. You will manage one day at a time. Today you will have just enough strength for this day and tomorrow your strength will be renewed. And that is exactly what happened.

Our church family blessed us with their support. Prayers were offered, visits were made, readers came to read to Pieter, a physical therapist donated his services to help keep Pieter's limbs from atrophying, nurses volunteered their time and a stair glide and handicap van were given to us. For 20 years, the people of this church prayed for us, nurtured and cared for us and loved us and that made all the difference in our lives. My Faith has become so much stronger because of what I have experienced and because of the support of this church family.

Grosse Pointe United Methodist Church means everything to me and I shall continue to “Uphold it by my prayers, my presence, my gifts, and my service,” as long as I am able.

Priscilla van Horne

February 13, 2008

A Tree, Planted by the Sanctuary

Read Psalm 1


If one sits on the left side of the aisle during church service,
one can see large tree branches beyond the beautiful stained glass window.

They might sway gently in a breeze,
remain stationary on a still day,
or blow gustily in a storm.

One can watch the changing of the seasons from Spring buds
to full leaf to bare lace against a Winter sky.

Nature becomes part of the service as one views the tree.

The full circle of life's experience
with the promise of continuity,
as it leafs anew each Spring.

"For every thing there is a season and a time for every matter under the Sun." Ecclesiastes 3


Sarah Frakes

February 12, 2008

Lightning Bugs

Read Genesis 1:23-25

What is the deal with lightning bugs? I mean, here is this rather ordinary looking flying insect, but wait ... it has a glow-in-the-dark rear end! What was God thinking?

I'm sure science has all kinds of explanations about how this fluorescent fanny is useful for mating and other stuff, but why did God choose to make the lightning bug glow? I wonder if, when God was creating all the animals and everything around us, he came up with the idea of the lightning bug and said, "The kids are gonna love this."
We know that God loves us enough to create all the things we need to survive, but does God loves us so much He created some things just to make us smile?

Just seeing lightning bugs takes me back to those warm summer nights of my youth. I'd be running around the back yard with my empty Mason jar, racing toward the flashing lights all around me. I can still feel the joy and hear the laughter echoing through my memories. Lightning bugs were as much a part of summer as fireworks, fresh tomatoes, and big ice-cold slabs of juicy watermelon. (I also have a theory of why God made watermelon seeds the perfect size to spit, but that is another story.)

God created so much diversity in this world, much more than is needed for mere survival. He made all of this for us, and He wants us to enjoy it.

We can get so busy surrounding ourselves with man-made goods that we don't notice the living tapestry God has laid out all around us.

I guess lightning bugs do have a purpose after all.
They are a reminder of a creative God who loves us so much, He'd even paint the rear end of a bug ... just to see us smile ....


Thought for the Day:
Maturity is knowing when and where to be immature.

(I got this from one of my internet friends, and it seemed too good not to share - cvb.)

February 11, 2008

SWEET SUCCESS

Read Psalm 34:1-10

I did not set out to become a pastor’s wife; I did not dream of serving churches. I cannot cook; I don’t pray well on demand; I am not always kind to other people’s children. Sometimes I can’t figure out what I was thinking when I married a minister . . . but some days are gifts, and the circumstances of sitting in church are such that the oddest moments pull me out of myself and to a better place . . . and my husband is kind. He offers good words and great sweet hope through his sermons such that when I listen – when I stop being “the wife” and am being instead a member of the congregation – I am comforted by what I hear.

Some people have a gift for comforting and caring, for offering what we need exactly when we need it. My Aunt Pat is Betty Crocker re-born and is probably a distant relative of Martha Stewart. Among her many contributions to our family I recall that she made rock candy from scratch at least once each year when I was a child. She talked often about the scent of burning sugar. It made her wonder whether the end product justified suffering the odor every year. I remember examining the candy each time it was offered to me. I dusted sugar from the edges of the candy and popped pieces in my mouth. They were tangy orange, burning cinnamon, eye-watering sour apple, sweet cherry. The strength of the flavors remains with me still . . . .

And here is what has triggered my thoughts of Aunt Pat’s candy: I am sitting in church on a rainy Sunday morning, and the sun is coming through the windows. It bounces from panel to panel and lights the sections of leaded stained glass. The window panes remind me of the candy I shared with my aunt. They are simple in form yet stunning, with colors made bright by the circumstance and placement of sunlight and warmth.

A generally accepted belief in this land I call “church” is that we are called to make a difference in the world. I trust my aunt already knew that each time she dealt with the scent of burning sugar in her kitchen. I remember that too as I measure my comfort on the couch each Sunday morning versus knowing there is a possibility I am helping to create some kind of good memory for someone when I walk through the doors of our church. My words or my touch or my smile could make a difference today.

This is the truth of life still: that even when we are mature and grown, we remain children to the core, and we are continually searching for people who will bring us sweet gifts from their hearts.

Jenneth Wright

February 10, 2008

GPS for Christians

In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6 (KJV)
Remember the Lord in everything you do, and he will show you the right way. Proverbs 3:6 (TEV)

As a young girl I took catechism in the Reformed Church of America which is similar to the Methodist program of confirmation. One of the gifts I received following completion of that program was an embossed plaster of Paris plaque that had Proverbs 3:6 on it. Such plaques with Bible verses were common gifts. I loved that plaque and it hung on my bedroom wall for years. It made a strong impression on me and I took it to heart. Many times when I was uncertain about my future and what path to take, I thought of that Bible verse and prayed for God’s direction in my life. I prayed to know what path of study to follow, where to go to school, who I should have as friends, where I should go to church, whether I should marry and so on. As I got older I prayed about things such as my beliefs, how I should train my children, how I should deal with difficult circumstances and people, or how I should manage my resources.

Today we rely on technology for so many things. We even use the computer to help us find a mate in life. Virtually everyone is familiar with Global Positioning Systems. It is amazing how accurate such a system is in identifying our location and directing us how to get to where we want to go. You can leave your house, travel across country and never need a map to direct you as long as you have a GPS system. Of course if that system were to break down it would not be long before we would be frustrated and lost.

It is easy to get caught up in modern technology but no present technology or future technology can tell us what spiritual path we should take. In life we need to be able to rely on a system that will never break down or become outdated. The kind of GPS we need for that is God’s Positioning System. God promises if we remember him, he will show us the right path. How reassuring to know with God as our guide we will never get lost. That doesn’t mean we won’t have challenges or difficulties but it means God promises to be with us and to make our path clear.

Prayer: Guide us Father in our spiritual journey in life. It is easy to become lost when we forget to turn to you for direction. Keep us from relying on the wrong people and things. Help us to be attuned to the GPS you have made available to us. Thank you for sending your Son to show us the way.

Pat Deck

February 9, 2008

I'm my own Grandpa

Read: John 1:11-13

You may not be familiar with this song (which details how the singer became his own grandfather), but I can still remember drawing out the relationships in the lyrics for the kids on a retreat one time, because they didn't believe it could work. It does – it really does.

Still, novelty songs don't work for the topic of devotions, do they? They do when they line up so perfectly with a conversation in the Parlour.

I was talking with my friend, Peter, about devotions. More specifically, we were talking about how as children we have parents who take care of us, have rules, and provide a house and love; but as adults, we find out that we still have a parent: our Heavenly Father, who has not just rules, but commandments, not just a house, but a Kingdom, and who doesn't just take care of us, but who actually sent His Son to Earth to die for us. Even better, He didn't stop there, but after dying for us, to pay for our sins, He rose again to show that not only was the debt paid, but that He has a place prepared for us: we get to go home to Heaven to live with Him there.

“OK,” I hear you ask, “so what does that have to do with 'I'm my own Grandpa?'” Well, we realized that since we have our Heavenly Father in common, that means that my father is my brother, and my mother is my sister. That's the family of God, folks. Ain't family something?


Charlie van Becelaere

What a blessing to have such a tangled family tree! Thank you, Lord.
Amen.

February 8, 2008

Christmas

Read Luke 2:10-11

I am sitting in the family service on Christmas Eve waiting for the children to finish passing out our party favors. As I sit here at Christmas, one of the most joyful times of the year I am reminded of something Heidi said to me one night in choir practice. She said that sometimes Christmas makes her sad because she knows the Christ child will grow up to die on the cross. But rather than feeling sad about this I am happy. Not that Christ had to die on the cross but that he did. That he sacrificed himself for us.

During Lent I am going to try and fill my heart with the joy I feel at Christmas. I will try to focus on the gift of love and eternal life that started on that cold dark night in Bethlehem, not on the cold dark days of Michigan winters.

Joy to the world the Lord is come!

Cathy Lorenz

February 7, 2008

The Prayer of Thanksgiving
Read Colossians 3:15-17

We all pray for many reasons and there are many different kinds of prayer. Many of us make deals with God. For example, “If You get me out of this mess, I will be good forever.” God is viewed as a candy machine. That is, if I put forth some effort, would you, God, do something for me in return?
And as many have often said, as long as there are exams, there will be prayer in the public schools!

What this devotion is about is different kind of prayer but certainly a kind of prayer that is not unknown to most of us. I would like to say a word about the prayer of thanksgiving. As many of you know, our long-awaited, first grandchild was born on 12/15/07, a month early and small for his gestational age after a difficult labor and delivery. Both mother and baby were in the hospital for 10 days with various issues but were finally released on Christmas Eve. All of us including several in-laws had been preparing the house for their arrival home and once the mother and baby settled in, we all gathered to have dinner.

Now I’d have to say I have never been very articulate praying in public. I always have needed a note or two at the very least to guide me along. But that night, as we bowed our heads before dinner, the words flowed. We all felt profound gratitude for the birth of our new family member and the recovery of his mother. After this experience, I will never approach Christmas Eve without an outpouring of thanksgiving not only for the birth of the Christ-child, but for the homecoming of our grandson and his mother.

Vivian Anderson

February 6, 2008

Ash Wednesday
Keeping the Spirit of the Season Alive

Read Luke 2:6-14, John 15:9-17

As we are all well aware, Lent begins especially early this year, seemingly on the heels of Christmastide and Epiphany. One of the things I notice each year is our society's penchant for putting Christmas away almost immediately after December 25. The half-price sales begin the next day, Christmas music broadcast on the radio (what little of it there is to begin with) ceases, holiday trees and decorations soon are removed from sight, and things return to “normal”, the joys and festivities of the season now becoming mere memories.

I've always found this situation to be a little sad as, since childhood, I've loved the Christmas season and every good thing associated with it. Growing up, it was an extraordinary experience, thanks largely to my mother. She came from a musical family, and she and her five siblings either played the piano, organ, or sang in a variety of church and other choirs (i.e., she in the General Motors chorus; her brother, the Rev. John Dykstra, in a touring men's ensemble while at university). So I naturally developed an interest in music, and over the years acquired quite a bit of Christmas music, art, and literature.

One of my personal favorites from this collection is Charles Dickens' “A Christmas Carol.” It is one of the most inspiring Christmas-themed stories I know, and embodies an important spiritual lesson. Perhaps because Christmas has become so secularized and commercialized, we find ourselves “going with the flow” and boxing it up at the end of each December. Yet, do you recall Rev. Wright stating in his Christmas Eve sermon that Christmas is not an ending, but a beginning? Though Advent and Christmas come at the end of the calendar year, they are at the beginning of the Christian year, a time during which we celebrate the lift of Jesus Christ and set our feet on a path of spiritual growth and adventure.

As the Bible bears witness, Jesus often taught in the form of a parable. My favorite is the parable of the Prodigal Son. I never fail to be moved by this marvelous story and think it has a universal human application. To me, Dickens' “A Christmas Carol” is a parable as well. At face value, it is entertaining and, at times, enchanting. Yet beneath the surface lies a lesson we might all do well to learn. I think, if we are honest, most of us exhibit a “Scrooge” characteristic or two, if not outwardly, then inwardly – in our thinking and in our attitudes to our fellow human beings and the world in general. At the point in the story where the ghost of Jacob Marley appears to his former business partner, it declares emphatically: “Business! Mankind was my business; charity, mercy, benevolence were all my business. My trade was but a drop of water in the ocean of my business! At this time of the rolling year I suffer most. Why did I walk through crowds of fellow beings with my eyes turned down, and never raise them to that blessed Star which led the Wise Men to a poor abode? Were there no poor homes to which its light would have conducted me?”

Through the dramatic visits of three spirits – the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet To Come – Scrooge was given an opportunity to reassess his life and his relationship to humankind. Each time I view a film version of “A Christmas Carol” I feel inspired to try amending my ways, giving more caringly and lovingly, and, hopefully, keeping the spirit of Christmas within me the whole year through.

Dickens wrote of his character, Scrooge, in the last paragraph of the story: “... but it was said of him ever afterwards that he knew how to keep Christmas well, if any man alive possessed the knowledge. May that be truly said of us, and all of us! And so, as Tiny Tim observed, God Bless Us, Every One!”

Doug Dykstra


Prayer: Dear God, once again we have gone in heart and mind to Bethlehem and seen the Christ Child visited and adored by the lofty and the lowly. We have stood in awe before the cradle of this Infant King and wondered how such a tiny babe could be your greatest gift to humankind. Help us to move beyond sentimental, seasonal adoration and take this gift into our own hearts, placing it permanently at the very center of our beings. Through the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, move us to gladly hear and accept the lessons Jesus came to teach, and guide us to apply them in our daily lives, recalling Jesus' own words: “This is my commandment: love one another, as I have loved you.”
Amen.

Lent 2008 - Introduction

I got a letter in the mail the other day. It was from England - Newton Abbot to be precise. After the usual greetings and chitchat, Dorothy got down to the important stuff, as it were.

“I’m wondering, Charlie, how you are coping with Lent being so early this year. You will have hardly got over Christmas before having to prepare your Lenten Devotion booklet.”

Little did she know that I had hung my purple Lent Stocking in the hallway with care, in hopes that devotions soon would be there. I’ll be sure to tell her, of course, but the telling is that much better because they were there. (I’d like to thank the Santas who dropped their writings in my stocking - it was fun for me, at any rate, and I hope for you as well.)

As has been the case each of the past issues, it’s been quite exciting to see the patterns emerge in the submissions. This year we even had a couple authors focus on Christmas! I suppose the purple of preparation that unites Advent and Lent is part of the glue that binds these seasons together, but then so is the Holy Spirit, whom we meet in several of the devotions this year. Since He is the one who comes into our hearts and makes real to us the things of God, what could be more appropriate as we make our journey through Lent and on to Easter and Christ’s glorious resurrection!

It still seems just as appropriate as it has been these last several years to repeat the introduction from our congregation's first book of devotions of more than thirty years ago:

Keeping a true Lent requires us to be vigilant in many ways: in prayer, study, worship, sacrifice, giving, meditation, and fellowship.

One or all may take precedence, depending upon our daily commitments. From these devotions, lovingly prepared, may you find a well spring of faith to renew and sustain you, so that the Glorious Triumph that is Easter will remain with you always.

The Lenten Committee

Again, we can but say, “Amen.”

Charlie van Becelaere, Editor