March 25, 2013

As a Child I Spoke as a Child

Read: Psalm 139

When we were youngsters and leaving the house, my mother would call out “Remember God is with you.” My oldest brother, Jim, would leave for the “High,” Jack to Pierce Junior High, and I to Trombley Elementary, all exiting at different times, but each would hear Mom's refrain of “God's with you.” To me it was a feeling that I was safe or being watched over and protected. For Jim and Jack, it probably conjured up “be good or else.”

One Spring morning it was sunny and warm out. I did not even need a coat. A sweater jacket for a wrap would do just fine. As I was walking, I pondered on where God would be that day – in my pocket, on my shoulder, or maybe in my lunch box? I decided that He was probably on my shoulder, as it was so nice out. (As you can see, I really had an imagination!) At recess that afternoon we played baseball. Roger hit the ball and it came right to me. I held up my two hands to catch it, but alas it slipped through and skimmed my shoulder... the one that I was sure God was sitting on. I started to cry, believing that God had been hit for sure. Neither Miss King, my teacher, nor Miss Coe, the Principal, could understand that the pain was in my heart and not my shoulder. The Principal ended up walking me the short half block to my home and my mother.

After Miss Coe left, I related the story to my Mommy, telling her about the ball, my shoulder, and God. I remember saying, “I couldn't see Him to help Him.” My mother smiled and assured me that God was very wise and all-knowing, and probably knew just where that flying ball was headed, and was out of harm's way. Her words – plus the milk and cooky – relieved my anxiety almost immediately.

Well, I guess what I'm trying to convey in this short tale is that I'm thankful for a wise, alert God, and for mothers with their wise words of wisdom.

Jean Buhler

March 24, 2013 - Palm Sunday

All Glory, Laud, and Honor (UMH #280)

Refrain

All glory, laud, and honor,

to thee, Redeemer, King,

to whom the lips of children

made sweet hosannas ring.

Thou art the King of Israel,

thou David's royal Son,

who in the Lord's name comest,

the King and Blessed One.

(Refrain)

The company of angels

are praising thee on high,

and we with all creation

in chorus make reply.

(Refrain)

The people of the Hebrews

with psalms before thee went;

our prayer and praise and anthems

before thee we present.

(Refrain)

To thee, before thy passion,

they sang their hymns of praise;

to thee, now high exalted,

our melody we raise.

(Refrain)

Thou didst accept their praises;

accept the prayers we bring,

who in all good delightest,

thou good and gracious King.

(Refrain)

Theodulph of Orleans, trans. by John Mason Neale

March 23, 2013

Don't it Always Seem to Go …?

Read: UM Hymnal #140, verse 3  (link warning - the hymn will start to play automatically)

There’s an old saying, “count your blessings”. Well, I think that’s just about impossible, because there’s so many.

As many of you know, the past year has been a difficult one for me. In February 2012, I had a bad fall and sustained a severe concussion from which I am still trying to recover. What once was easy for me now requires great effort and many of my activities have been suspended. Although this process has been hard, it has given me a lot of time for reflection.

We are given so many blessings by God that sometimes we take them for granted. I guess it seems kind of odd that loss makes you appreciate things more, but it is true. One of the greatest blessings for me has been the love and support of my husband, David. This man took his vows seriously when we married – especially the part about “in sickness”. He has constantly and consistently helped me through what has been (as yet) the greatest struggle of my life. He has taken on many extra tasks without complaint, been my cheerleader when I’m down, pushed me a little when I needed it and always “had my back”.

Another blessing has been the caring love of my children. It was very hard for me to relinquish the mother role and let them help and care for me, but they have each done an admirable job in their support.

I am so blessed to have a church family that has cared for me in so many ways, not only through their prayers, but countless acts of kindness. God has surrounded me with love made manifest through those around me, and it took an unfortunate experience for me to realize it – maybe that’s a blessing too.

I can’t let a devotion go on without mention of our dog, Toby. A former minister once told me that dogs are "just animals”. At the risk of offending some, I beg to differ. Our quirky dog has made us laugh at his antics, given me a reason to get out and walk every day, seems to sense when I’m down and been at my side through this trial. I think he’s also God’s blessing to us.

Prayer: Dear Lord, give us the courage to face life’s challenges, knowing You will always be at our side. Thank you for the countless blessings in our daily lives.

Sue DeWitt

March 22, 2013

On Relationship

Read: Isaiah 11:1-10

I often reflect on the subject of relationship, and would like to share a few thoughts on this topic. I use the singular form of the word, and not the plural, as I am referring to our one essential relationship – our relationship to God, or to life itself, and not to the “individual” relationships that characterize our daily experiences.

We normally think of humanity as a collection of individuals living at different times and in different places within the space/time framework. The teachings of the world constantly reinforce individuality and therefore separation, rather than the shared life essence that unifies all that God created. In the first account of creation in Genesis we read: “So God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them.” and in John 4:24: “God is spirit and those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” What, then, is our essential nature – physical or spiritual? God is holy and wholly loving, despite opposing images that have arisen out of minds given over to fear. The attribution of human qualities to the divine reinforces the image of an anthropomorphic God (i.e., “the man upstairs”). Since God is pure love, his creation must also be imbued with the same quality, a point which leads to a fundamental shift in perception. Respect for and appreciation of the holiness of life dramatically changes how we experience it. Sharing and giving rather than taking and having reflect the abundance of creation and the unconditional love of God.

Some time ago, in a scholarly publication devoted to the emerging fields of science and spirituality, I read an article that posits the concept that cooperation and not competition is nature’s way. Numerous examples were given by the author that support a very different view of the interchange between living organisms, especially in the “lower” realms of plants and animals. I was intrigued by the cooperation that resulted in shared well-being. I well remember the first time I saw a photograph of the Earth taken from outer space. Here was a striking image of a relatively small planet, covered in blue and white, floating in the immense blackness of space, and home to billions of human beings. “We are all in this together!,” I thought. And we’re going to sink or swim in like manner.

A cursory glance of human history reveals endless conflict, sorrow, and tragedy. Our preoccupation with personal ambition typically results in conflict and struggle. These hallmarks of the ego practically blind us to the real world of love and benevolence, which is, of course, a reflection on Earth of the kingdom of Heaven. The magnificent and compellingly attractive teachings of Jesus Christ illumine our paths and reveal this higher dimension if we allow him to rule in our hearts and minds. For what reason have we been placed on Earth? What is the true meaning of love? How can it be defined? In truth it certainly bears no resemblance to “love” as portrayed in popular culture!

World conditions are deteriorating at an alarming rate. Worrisome environmental degradation, stunning disregard for the sanctity of live, and the shocking results of a culture of greed and violence are daily news items. Into this dark and seemingly hopeless situation has come a Savior. All across the globe, those who have forgotten not their divine heritage are being called upon to follow in Jesus’ footsteps and to be, as it were, the saviors of the world. Let us gladly exchange illusions of grandiosity and specialness for God’s truth, and willingly allow the Holy Spirit and Jesus to be our sole, unified Guide. “This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!” (Luke 9:35).

And so, what shall our relationship to life be? This question merely scratches the surface of this topic and is intended to be a springboard for personal reflection and corporate discussion. Let us never forget that as one sees a brother or sister, one sees oneself. In him or her one finds oneself or loses oneself.

Most sincerely, Doug Dykstra

March 21, 2013

Prayer Quilts

Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it 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. - 1 Peter 4:10-11

Many years ago, Bertie See brought an idea to the United Methodist Women to begin a ministry of prayer quilts. The idea was to create beautiful quilts that could be given to individuals or families who needed the loving arms of the congregation to surround them. As individuals we tie a knot with the threads that are placed in the quilt and say a prayer for the recipient of the quilt. After the time of knot tying and prayers, the quilts are then delivered.

I started thinking about all the steps in the quilt process and realized that the people who create the quilts spend a large amount of time blessing the quilts and thinking about who might be receiving the quilts. The first step is that a few of the ladies who love to shop visit a local fabric store to purchase the fabric. They look at colors and textures and feel the softness of the fabric, knowing that someone will be holding the finished quilt. Fabrics are then washed, cut and ironed. On quilting days with tables everywhere, we turn the Great Hall into a maze of colors. We have some wonderful ladies who love to iron. As they smooth out the fabric and press it into a beautiful square, the beauty of the design and the colors speak to them of God’s creation.

The next step is to lay out the layers of fabric and batting, creating a quilt sandwich. There is often a lot of lifting and shifting, much smoothing and joining of edges. Big quilting pins are used to pin the edging on the quilts. Then the quilts are given to several people who seam the bindings to the edges. I usually bring my sewing machine on our assembly days and often sew bindings on the quilt “sandwiches.” As I sew all four sides, I often think of the individuals who might receive the beautiful quilts. Do they like flowers? Do they enjoy bright colors? Does the design appeal to someone who likes traditional elements? Will they be able to feel the love that was used in selecting a quilt for them?

The next step is to turn the edges and pin them in preparation for hand-stitching. We often take them home or give them to women who like to work at home, quietly stitching the edges. I know that we often put in those little hidden stitches thinking about those whose lives need a little repair or extra attention. Someone once laughingly said that they didn’t want to get a quilt because it meant something bad was happening, but I feel that we should all look at it as our congregational support and love for being part of such a wonderful community of faith. I’d be happy to have all those prayers said for me anytime.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the talents of those in our congregation and bless all those who need the loving care of our congregation. Bless those who sew the quilts and those who receive them. Grant them peace and love that enfolds them daily. Amen.

Libby Van de Putte

March 20, 2013

Supernatural

Read: 1 Corinthians 12:1-11

God is there and He is watching He tells me all is well

God is there, there’s no denying He’s supernatural

In six days, the universe was made And from the dead a man was raised

They say he walked across the waves And I’ll believe it to my grave

God is supernatural God is there, everywhere

Some things just can’t be explained

From the lyrics to the song “Supernatural” recorded by DC Talk

In this day and age of reality television there are countless shows about the supernatural. Ghost hunting and ghost story shows are numerous with each providing proof of their ‘findings’ through recordings, eyewitness accounts and video footage. Some of these shows are based on people seeking out the supernatural (always in some dark, creepy place)—others find it by chance or it finds them. It appears the television networks have taken the liberty to define the supernatural as something that is benign, evil or simply unexplained. I beg to differ.

I believe the supernatural also defines God and that sometimes mysterious way He works to heal, comfort, feed and teach us each day. God talks to us when we listen, leads us when we allow him and helps us in our time of need. How? Well sometimes it’s hard to explain, isn’t it? But you just know. That small prayer is answered. A friend shows up at the right time or says the right thing to lift your spirits (how did they know?).

If you think about it, God was and still is on the cutting edge—there are ‘God seeking’ shows on every Sunday and have been for years—the first reality television so to speak. Broadcasts of church services of almost every denomination are televised on Sunday mornings.

But seeking God and all he promises on reality television isn’t really my preference.

Experiencing the Word of God at my own church with a community of people that support and care for each other is one of the best ways to experience the supernatural gifts and powers of our Lord and Savior.

Kristy Irrer

March 19, 2013

Channeling Grief

We heard a story recently about a mother's grief after her 19 year old son, Logan, lost his life in a drowning accident. His parents have started a foundation in his name to raise money for several youth organizations. They also created the "I'm Logan It" program to promote the art of being like Logan.

“I'm Logan it" was a saying his friends started long before his death. He had a very outgoing personality and his parents want people to follow some of his traits. They printed a card listing these traits to pass along to others.

Here are a few of that list we all could follow:

1. Smile and say hello to a stranger

2. Be funny and make someone laugh.

3. Give someone a hug who looks like they need one.

4. Strike up a conversation with a stranger.

5. Connect two of your friends who have never met.

6. Spend time with a friend who is feeling down.

7. Reach out and help a young kid or an elderly person.

8. Send a thank you note to someone who inspired you.

Sara and Jack Wooton

March 18, 2013

The Dogs We Love

Read: Joshua 4:1-7

Over the years, it has been our tradition at the beginning of Sr High UMYF meetings to start by reading a devotion from the Upper Room. One of the best parts was when we would all try to guess what the prayer focus was from what had been read.

One day, and I have no what the devotion was anymore, Ben guessed that the prayer focus was the dogs we love. It wasn't, but it was such a great thought, that – week after week – that was almost always the first guess at the prayer focus.

It became as much a part of the tradition as the reading itself.

That makes me wonder how traditions and rituals start, and why do they start? Why are they important?

Sometimes it may just be that the first time made us feel good, or loved, or happy, or worshipful; and then we repeat them to try to regain, or retain, or relive that feeling.

Sometimes that works, and sometimes not; sometimes it’s good, and sometimes not.

The key is that they can be signposts for our journey to come, and not just reminders of where we've been. They can be used for getting us to live our faith, not just to think about or glory in someone else's.

These days, hearing “the dogs we love” takes me back to those days of sharing the Upper Room – but it also makes me want to share more of those times – with even more friends.

May all our rituals and traditions serve us as well.

Charlie van Becelaere

Prayer focus: The Dogs We Love

March 17, 2013

He Leadeth Me

He leadeth me: O blessed thought!

O words with heavenly comfort fraught!

Whate'er I do, where'er I be,

still 'tis God's hand that leadeth me.

Refrain

He leadeth me, he leadeth me,

by his own hand he leadeth me;

his faithful follower I would be,

for by his hand he leadeth me.

Sometimes mid scenes of deepest gloom,

sometimes where Eden's bowers bloom,

by waters still, o'er troubled sea,

still 'tis his hand that leadeth me.

(Refrain)

Lord, I would place my hand in thine,

nor ever murmur nor repine;

content, whatever lot I see,

since 'tis my God that leadeth me.

(Refrain)

And when my task on earth is done,

when by thy grace the victory's won,

e'en death's cold wave I will not flee,

since God through Jordan leadeth me.

(Refrain)

Joseph H. Gilmore

March 16, 2013

Confidence of a Certain Faith

Read: UMH #509 verse 1  (link warning: the hymn will start playing automatically)

Considering my father’s very bad health habits, it is a tribute to his constitution that he lived to the age of 86. My mother had died more than two years earlier, and Dad, who had insisted on being her caretaker through her long decline, would often tell us he was ready to join her.

These were depressing conversations, but we listened as empathetically as we could. We wished they had chosen to participate in a church. Mom was a lapsed Methodist, if there is such a thing, and Dad never attended church, as far as I know.

Some people put pictures and coupons on their refrigerators; my parents displayed their living wills and, as Oregonians, were glad to live in a state that allowed doctor-assisted suicide. They came from sturdy pioneer stock and were loath to take help of any kind.

Nevertheless, Dad was willing to accept hospice if it meant he could die at home, as my mother had, and that is the deal I struck with him.

They didn’t want a memorial service. They were adamant. They wanted to be buried at sea, with their ashes mixed together.

So when Dad died in August, I braced for the next steps, which I thought would involve hiring a local fisherman to take us out, me throwing up the entire time. Dad had always enjoyed taking Greg, Ross and Ben fishing, but I had a long history of motion sickness and was happy to stay home with Mom. I fretted about distributing my parents’ ashes in the ever-present wind, but I was prepared to honor their last wishes.

The undertaker put the end to those plans, explaining that the Coast Guard handles burials at sea and that I could get into legal trouble going rogue, as it were. The Coast Guard would conduct the burials at a time that was convenient for them, and when the weather permitted. Furthermore, the ashes would be placed in a biodegradable box and dropped, rather than scattered. I would be notified of the burial via U.S. mail.

In late August, I arrived home from work and retrieved the mail from the floor, where it had landed after being shoved through the slot. Expecting the large manilla envelope to contain a brief notice, I was stunned to see it include a color graphic showing the coordinates where District 13 Division 5 Flotilla 6 dropped the ashes, as well as a copy of the service, which was led by a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and included taps. I’m not sure what my parents would have thought, but it gave me comfort to read the words.

When Greg got home, he took one look at the coordinates and said, “That’s where Jack used to take us fishing!”

Prayer: God whose days are without end, and whose mercies cannot be measured, let your Holy Spirit lead us in holiness and righteousness all our days; so that, when we have served you in our time, we may be gathered to our fathers, having the testimony of a good conscience; in the confidence of a certain faith, and in the comfort of a reasonable and holy hope, in favor with our God, and in charity with the world. AMEN.

Kathy Gardner

March 15, 2013

It's Road Rally Time

Read: 1 Corinthians 9:23-27

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. ‑ 1 Corinthians 9:24

One of the fun fellowship activities our congregation sponsors each and every year is the Road Rally (all right, almost every year ‑ sorry). It's a great time of teamwork and competition, crowned with a party at the end for all the participants. Just as in Paul's words above, the Road Rally has only one winning entry. The rest of us were there, all right: driving, navigating, trivializing, figuring, kibitzing, et cetera‑ing, but only one vehicle can win the Rally.

This is a pretty discouraging picture of the Christian life, don't you think? I mean, here's Paul telling us all to run the race in such a way as to win it, but ‑ oh, by the way, only one can win, and I'm running my legs off ‑ see you at the finish line, Corinthians!

Of course, that's not what he's really saying there. After all, Paul tells us in Ephesians that nothing we do can get us that reward: For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. (Ephesians 2:8‑9)

What does that mean in his race metaphor, then? Here's what I think. When we are baptized, we are baptized into Christ; when we are confirmed (or join by confession of faith), we confirm our acceptance of Christ's finished work for us. This means that when God looks at me, He doesn't see Charlie, He sees Jesus. When He watches me running the race, He doesn't see Charlie stumbling all over the place, He sees Jesus running the perfect race; He sees me win!

Sure, I can't drive myself into first place, but I'm already in the winning car! Thanks be to God who gives us the victory in our Lord, Jesus Christ! Amen.

Charlie van Becelaere

March 14, 2013

Blessings

Read: Jeremiah 29:11-13

Think of all the times God has influenced and blessed you...

That time:

When you won your first race,

When you aced a test,

When you got into that school you wanted,

When you saw and were able to appreciate your first sunrise, or sunset,

When you found the love of your life,

When you held your first child, or second, or third, or all of them,

When you got that job you tried so hard to earn,

When your first tragedy befell you and you were surrounded and supported by your family and friends,

When you loved so deeply you wanted to burst,

When you were faced with a tough decision and made the right one despite how hard it was,

When you were able to be the shoulder someone else needed to cry on,

And when you were able to share all of your blessings with others through service, gifts, time, support, work, love...

In so many ways God grants and helps and loves and provides and pushes and motivates... All are blessings.

Mike Van de Putte

March 13, 2013

Take Time

Read: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

Take time to THINK

    It is the source of power

Take time to PLAY

    It is the secret of perpetual youth

Take time to READ

    It is the fountain of wisdom

Take time to PRAY

    It is the greatest power on Earth

Take time to LOVE and to BE LOVED

    It is a God-given privilege

Take time to BE FRIENDLY

    It is the road to happiness

Take time to LAUGH

    It is the music of the soul

Take time to GIVE

    It is too short a day to be selfish

Take time to WORK

    It is the price of success

Take time to DO CHARITY

    It is the key to Heaven.

March 12, 2013

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.

March 11, 2013

Scrambled Eggs

Cast all your anxieties on him, for he cares about you.

1Peter 5:7 (RSV)

Things are exciting in our households this year. Our son and his wife purchased their first house and are settling in. Our daughter is getting married this summer and plans are everywhere. These are wonderful times but.... What can I do to help without meddling? What will be the next thing to fix with the wedding plans? God has given me so much and yet I worry.

During the Bible study on Lazarus we talked about moving the stones from our heart so Jesus can be with us. “Remember to stay focused.” When so much excitement and joy is around why do I ponder heavy thoughts?

I look around our congregation and see so many people with so much going on in their lives. There is a young couple with small children, a retired couple, a single parent and the list goes on. Yet, they seem so happy, calm and contented. I seem to feel like scrambled eggs so much of the time. There is always so much to do and not enough time. I have begun making a list of all the things I need to do and assigning a day to accomplish each task. It is my hope that this approach will get me organized and give me a sense of control over the chaos. I have been at this process for a couple of months now and when I put it on the paper it my way of saying “God, here it is. Help me please?” I have found just putting it on the paper is a huge help. I have to stop and focus. I clear all the “stuff” away and give God a chance to speak to me. When I focus I can group and prioritize things. I even cross things off that aren’t really necessary once I look at the big picture. (The whole list) I have found that having the list allows me to save my energy to think about things that are really important. I don’t waste energy and time trying to remember everything I think I need to do. I find myself chatting with God at numerous times throughout the day and thanking him for my very busy and crazy life. I try to make the most of the opportunities to serve or help others. I wish I could do more but... I need to relax and enjoy the opportunities God has given me.

Lord, please help me to remember you are always available and I just need to ask for your help. Help me see how to turn the feeling of “scrambled eggs” into an attitude of peace and appreciation for your world. I always accomplish much more when I listen to you and follow your lead. Amen

Gretchen Brammer

March 10, 2013

O Master, Let Me Walk With Thee

O Master, let me walk with thee

in lowly paths of service free;

tell me thy secret; help me bear

the strain of toil, the fret of care.

Help me the slow of heart to move

by some clear, winning word of love;

teach me the wayward feet to stay,

and guide them in the homeward way.

Teach me thy patience; still with thee

in closer, dearer company,

in work that keeps faith sweet and strong,

in trust that triumphs over wrong;

In hope that sends a shining ray

far down the future's broadening way,

in peace that only thou canst give,

with thee, O Master, let me live.

Washington Gladden

March 09, 2013

My Worry Lobe

Read: Matthew 6:25-34

I was the principal care-giver and business manager for my late aunt. Concerns about her health and her finances, which were intertwined, sometimes found their way into my head at very inconvenient times. They never kept me from going to sleep but if I woke up at say, 3:00 a.m., they would have a field day in my brain’s “worry lobe.”

I found that lying in bed waiting for sleep to come back to me was, more often than not, futile. The worries just kept circling through my thoughts.

In the wee hours of one of those nights I had a flash of inspiration: talk to God. I can’t remember my exact prayer but it was something along the lines of “Lord, please guide me to do the right things for my aunt.” It worked. I did not receive a sudden flash of knowledge but perhaps that “still, small voice” spoke to me. I relaxed and got back to sleep, knowing that God would guide me. Sometimes I had no specific concerns and, rather than asking for guidance, I simply repeated the Lord’s Prayer to myself, which served to remind me of His presence.

Were all my worries gone? Did I sleep soundly every night after that? Nope. My responsibilities still, at times, seemed heavy. I did know, however, that I had help in bearing those responsibilities and that made them much easier to handle.

Fred Van de Putte

March 08, 2013

The Noodle

Read: Luke 15:11-32

Several years ago, my wife's brother remarried, and I inherited a new niece, Stephanie (the Noodle). She was as vibrant and sweet as a 6-year-old girl could be, and as squiggly too, hence the nickname.

One night, her mother and my brother-in-law had plans to go to a Christmas party and wanted Jeri and me to watch Miss Noodle for the night. We were going to my brother Gord's house for a Christmas feast, and took the Noodle with us, as my niece Rachael would be there, and the two loved to play together. A family feast ensued, and a good time was had by all.

It was a dark, cold night, lots of stars, and no moon. As we drove home on the quiet country roads across the north end of three counties, we could hear Stephanie slipping in and out of sleep and Noodle dreams. Then she woke up. She started telling us of all the new aunts and uncles and cousins she had just met, and how much fun it was.

Then she started counting out loud and on her fingers all her family, new and old, and all the people she knew loved her. She had a few favorites and people she knew loved her "extra special."

When she had counted all of us, she came up with 33. She had 33 people she knew loved her. Then, from the back seat, she yelled in excitement, "Did you hear that? I have 33 people who love me. Uncle Ron, I'm rich!"

Ron Draper

March 07, 2013

Friends and Family

"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!" (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)

Looking at our congregation and singing the words to the hymn, One Bread, One Body, I began thinking about friends becoming family. There are many friends surrounding us, but they sure feel like part of our extended family. Isn’t that the true meaning of fellowship? We are blessed to have those we love and care for surround us. Don’t we notice when someone isn’t there? Don’t we suffer for those who experience sickness or loss? We are one body in Christ.

What would we do for our friends? Would we pick them up if they fell down? Would we feed them? Would we cry or laugh with them? Do we celebrate with them the milestones, victories, or hope? When we celebrate communion, we are reaffirming our vow to support each other through Christ who makes up one. We are one body in Christ.

Daily we should pray for our church and our family. What a blessing to have such care surrounding us.

One bread, one body,

one Lord of all,

one cup of blessing which we bless.

And we, though many,

throughout the earth,

we are one body in this one Lord.

Many the gifts,

many the works,

one in the Lord of all.

Libby Van de Putte

March 06, 2013

Sunsets

Read: UMH #685 (link warning - the hymn starts playing automatically)

Those who know me realize I like sunsets. Thankfully in the years of my fruitful marriage all my attempts to find a spot on the east coast of Michigan were resisted. Finally a decade or so ago we worked together, the queen and I, to purchase land where sunsets over lake Michigan are possible.

A sunset is more than a passing moment captured in a photo. Were that the case one could put a tripod on remote timer and make a collage of the daily changes. A sunset is a time for quiet recollection as the sun passes over the horizon. We are told it takes seven minutes from bottom to top. The vision that comes before and after is far more important. It leads to a time of quiet reflection on life, purpose and that which is important to all of us.

Some days the sun sets as a glowing orange orb under a clear sky. Other days the glow can be seen fleetingly as clouds scuttle by. Some days we know it is there, and are reassured, but cannot see it as the entire horizon is unknown, distant and obscured.

What does this do? As one contemplates what we are and where we are it reminds us of the immanence and permanence of that which we cannot see. We are reminded that we are all part of a reality and that though the sun may set it will rise again. And so as we approach Easter we are reminded of the essence of spirituality.

This feeling stays with me and settles my oft unsettled mind as a slowly crawl back from the edge of the water towards home. A sense of this permanence needs to be continually reaffirmed. All of us should take the time to sit quietly alone without bothers or cares and reflect as we contemplate the sunset.

Richard Scott

March 05, 2013

JOY TO THE WORLD

Read: Luke 2:13-20

This is probably not the most appropriate way to start my submission for the 2013 Lenten Book, but holidays are so important to me that I felt compelled to address how I feel.

I will never see my daughter again, since she died in childbirth almost 12 years ago, but she remains in my heart forever. She was a very smart girl, and I am sure that she knew what was happening as she ascended to Heaven to be with the Lord....

This Christmas holiday was a different one for us, as we were alone for the very first time. I didn't miss the crowds at the airport, which at times can be a bit much. All the rest of the family wanted to do their own thing, and so we will celebrate with them soon.

Our congregation is so fortunate to have the ministers we have. You can count on the fact that if you are going to the hospital for surgery, one of them is always there to be with the family to make sure they are comfortable and getting lots of prayers.

And finally, this Christmas, we were honored to have approximately 10 children and 10 adults sing carols to us outside our front door. Caroling is a tradition that was very popular when we were young people. Now we know how they must have felt, because we felt that way too … Blessings to those people who provided such a nice occasion.

JOY TO THE WORLD... All is well with the Lord. Easter is upon us. May there be peace and happiness.

Karen G. Leigh

March 04, 2013

Family

Read: Matthew 18:20

Christian is home from Afghanistan. He's not "home", but he's back in the United States. Alaska is colder but so much better.

He was here for Christmas, The Rumpps were able to be here (in spite of the snow storm) for three days, and we had a wonderful family holiday time together.

We're so blessed!

Prayer: Thank you God!

Shirley Van Becelaere

March 03, 2013

Just a Closer Walk with Thee

Just a closer walk with Thee,

Grant it, Jesus, is my plea,

Daily walking close to Thee,

Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.

I am weak, but Thou art strong,

Jesus, keep me from all wrong,

I’ll be satisfied as long

As I walk, let me walk close to Thee.

Through this world of toil and snares,

If I falter, Lord, who cares?

Who with me my burden shares?

None but Thee, dear Lord, none but Thee.

When my feeble life is o’er,

Time for me will be no more,

Guide me gently, safely o’er

To Thy kingdom's shore, to Thy shore.

March 02, 2013

Faith Does not Need to be Blind, and I Have Proof!

Read: Psalm 23

I am a lucky man. I have a wonderful family. I have loving parents and In-Laws, an amazing brother with a wonderful wife and two beautiful children, I have an aunt and uncle and cousins who love me, I have another aunt who is, as most of you know, an angel on earth, and last but certainly not least, I have the most amazing wife in the world who has shared some great adventures with me for the last four and almost ½ years.

This past year has been tough in terms of the eldest generation of my family. Both my last surviving grandmother, Charlotte, and my great aunt Agnes have passed away. My grandfathers have both been gone for more than 17 years now, and my Grandmother Mary Jane has been gone for more than six years. I miss them all terribly, but losing these two has been surprisingly difficult and eye opening.

Shortly after my granny (Charlotte) passed away, I had an amazing and comforting dream. There she was, standing up! This was not possible in the last few years of her life due to many health issues, not to mention two broken hips, what a strong woman! She looked younger and healthier, the granny of my youth back in full form. She said some simple words to me. “You don’t have to worry about me; we are all up here eating breakfast!” And just like that I was awake and shaken, but in a good way. For any of you that knew my grandparents, especially my granny and granddad, you know that meals, especially breakfast on a Sunday morning, were important to them. For me, this was confirmation. “Confirmation of what?” I hear you cry.

 Heaven

 Such a beautiful concept. Something we are told exists but have to rely on blind faith in order to believe in it. We can use the words of the Bible, or our pastors and friends for re-assurance, but for some of us it takes more than that. I have always believed in God, the message of Jesus, and the journey of the human spirit until it reaches that final and amazing destination. But there are always lingering doubts. I am human, and like most humans, when something bad happens, there is sometimes a questioning of faith. The world around us is filled with tragedy and despair; some believe that Earth is actually hell. It is not, because there is beauty, love, hope, and family that a hell would not allow. We believe in what is happening on this Earth because we can see it, smell it, touch it, taste it, and feel it. But because of a dream, I don’t just have blind faith that heaven exists, I know it because I have seen it in the face of my granny.

James F. Van de Putte

March 01, 2013

Carrots, Eggs and Coffee

Consider it wholly joyful, my brethren, whenever you are enveloped in or encounter trials of any sort or fall into various temptations. Be assured and understand that the trial and proving of your faith bring out endurance and steadfastness and patience. But let endurance and steadfastness and patience have full play and do a thorough work, so that you may be [people] perfectly and fully developed [with no defects], lacking in nothing. - James 1: 2-4

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling.

Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water. In the first she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans.

She let them sit and boil without saying a word. In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl.

Turning to her daughter, she asked, "Tell me, what do you see?" "Carrots, eggs, and coffee," she replied.

She brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft and mushy. She then asked her to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hardened egg. Finally, she asked her to sip the coffee.

The daughter smiled as she tasted its deep flavor and inhaled its rich aroma. The daughter then asked, "What's the point, mother?"

Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity – boiling water – but each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin, outer shell had protected its liquid interior. But, after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened.

The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water they had changed the water.

"Which are you?" she asked her daughter. "When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?"

Think of this: Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems strong? But with pain and adversity, do I wilt and lose my strength? Am I the egg that starts with a fluid spirit but, after death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and a hardened heart? Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water – the very circumstance that brings the adversity, the pain, the hardship – into something quite wonderful. When the water gets hot, it releases it's fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better, and change the situation around you for the better.

When the hours are the darkest and trials are their greatest do you elevate to another level? How do you handle adversity?

ARE YOU A CARROT, AN EGG, OR A COFFEE BEAN?

(Somehow, wake up and smell the coffee takes on a whole new meaning)

-Author Unknown

*I found this online and thought it was worth sharing.

Blessings,

Cindy Rolka