Christ, The Lord, Is Risen Today!
"CHRIST, the Lord, is risen to-day," Sons of men and angels say!
Raise your joys and triumphs high: Sing, ye heavens; thou earth, reply.
Love's redeeming work is done; Fought the fight, the battle won:
Lo! the sun's eclipse is o'er, Lo! he sets in blood no more!
Vain the stone, the watch, the seal, Christ hath burst the gates of hell:
Death in vain forbids his rise, Christ hath opened Paradise.
Lives again our glorious King! Where, O death, is now thy sting?
Once he died our souls to save; Where's thy victory, boasting grave
Soar we now where Christ hath led, Following our exalted Head:
Made like him, like him we rise, Ours the cross, the grave, the skies.
King of glory! Soul of bliss! Everlasting life is this,
Thee to know, thy power to prove, Thus to sing, and thus to love.
Charles Wesley (from 1739)
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Saturday, April 23, 2011
April 23, 2011
Everyday Signs Often Go Unnoticed
Read: Psalm 23 and 121
As most of you know, (and I won’t deny it), I am a car guy. I take a lot of heat for that most of the time. Pretty much everyone dismisses my car “selections” as extreme, or extraordinary – not very realistic. Everyone except my Aunt Martha. I was Martha’s “car guy.” She told me so. I shared special times with her in all her vehicles. Let me tell you the first car I remember her having, a new 1969 Oldsmobile Cutlass – I remember my father going to get it after an accident Martha had with it. No one was hurt but the car was totaled, as I recall. My father had towed it back to our house where it sat in the backyard, next to the garage, I believe waiting for the insurance adjuster to make a final ruling on it. I played in that car as a kid. It was kind-of like the movie “Chitty, Chitty, Bang, Bang.” Remember from the movie the kids playing in the wrecked car? Maybe, just maybe – this is where my interest in cars took root.
After the Cutlass was a used 1970 blue Mustang not the “sporty Mustang Mach 1” (which would have been my choice), but the Mustang “Ghia” - what I will call the “pampered” edition – with a full vinyl top no less – which to say the least was somewhat unique. As was Martha. Next up was the brand new 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass coupe. Baby blue with a white landau vinyl top, her Cutlass had white buckets seats with a really neat automatic floor console shift.
There were lots more after that, but here’s where I’m going with all of this. Martha had all of these, what I will call “close hits.” I finally got my chance for full input in 1998. I was now her car guy, officially. I knew what she deserved, but would never have picked out for herself. She was too humble – me, unfortunately, “Not-so-much.”
Martha thought she might like a Buick. “I’ve never had a Buick,” she said to me. Keep in mind Martha was only after transportation at this point in her life. But her “car guy” knew what he wanted for her. What she deserved. She had not seen anything she was interested in. I said to her “Over there, that’s the one you want,” pointing to the Regal GS. She immediately said no – I don’t need anything like that. I was insistent. I said, “Yes – Yes, that’s the one you want.” Now Martha at this point in her life was somewhat unstable with her walking. But, picture this, I made her walk to the other side of the lot, and then climb – yes climb up onto these cement blocks holding this Regal GS. Once we got up there I remember her gasping and saying she can’t believe she climbed up here, but there we were, peering into the side windows like little kids. Gray leather cushy seats, console and bucket seats in the front with the automatic floor shift. All the bells and whistles except for a sunroof – she was adamant it not have a sunroof. So here we are, I said Martha this is your car – it has everything on it and the only thing it’s missing is a sunroof. It’s like it’s meant to be! And I truly believe it was. Martha, not so much . . .
Now here’s what came to me early one Wednesday morning. I knew I had to share with you, so I wrote myself a note. I know Martha secretly loved that car – it took both of us, but we finally hit the mark with the Regal GS. In retrospect, it actually carries a very special message to the rest of us about Martha – A sign, I believe. Who possibly could have known? I certainly never put it together. The “GS” in Regal GS stands for “Gran Sport”
My Aunt Martha was a “Gran Sport.” With everything medical she had to deal with since the age of four, she was a “Gran Sport.” The way Martha approached life – and the special challenges in her life – she truly and indeed was a “Gran Sport.”
Thanks be to God for my Aunt Martha – the comfort I find in her life, and in her Buick. We should all go through life facing all the everyday challenges like Martha did – by being “Gran Sports.”
Bill Kremer
Read: Psalm 23 and 121
As most of you know, (and I won’t deny it), I am a car guy. I take a lot of heat for that most of the time. Pretty much everyone dismisses my car “selections” as extreme, or extraordinary – not very realistic. Everyone except my Aunt Martha. I was Martha’s “car guy.” She told me so. I shared special times with her in all her vehicles. Let me tell you the first car I remember her having, a new 1969 Oldsmobile Cutlass – I remember my father going to get it after an accident Martha had with it. No one was hurt but the car was totaled, as I recall. My father had towed it back to our house where it sat in the backyard, next to the garage, I believe waiting for the insurance adjuster to make a final ruling on it. I played in that car as a kid. It was kind-of like the movie “Chitty, Chitty, Bang, Bang.” Remember from the movie the kids playing in the wrecked car? Maybe, just maybe – this is where my interest in cars took root.
After the Cutlass was a used 1970 blue Mustang not the “sporty Mustang Mach 1” (which would have been my choice), but the Mustang “Ghia” - what I will call the “pampered” edition – with a full vinyl top no less – which to say the least was somewhat unique. As was Martha. Next up was the brand new 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass coupe. Baby blue with a white landau vinyl top, her Cutlass had white buckets seats with a really neat automatic floor console shift.
There were lots more after that, but here’s where I’m going with all of this. Martha had all of these, what I will call “close hits.” I finally got my chance for full input in 1998. I was now her car guy, officially. I knew what she deserved, but would never have picked out for herself. She was too humble – me, unfortunately, “Not-so-much.”
Martha thought she might like a Buick. “I’ve never had a Buick,” she said to me. Keep in mind Martha was only after transportation at this point in her life. But her “car guy” knew what he wanted for her. What she deserved. She had not seen anything she was interested in. I said to her “Over there, that’s the one you want,” pointing to the Regal GS. She immediately said no – I don’t need anything like that. I was insistent. I said, “Yes – Yes, that’s the one you want.” Now Martha at this point in her life was somewhat unstable with her walking. But, picture this, I made her walk to the other side of the lot, and then climb – yes climb up onto these cement blocks holding this Regal GS. Once we got up there I remember her gasping and saying she can’t believe she climbed up here, but there we were, peering into the side windows like little kids. Gray leather cushy seats, console and bucket seats in the front with the automatic floor shift. All the bells and whistles except for a sunroof – she was adamant it not have a sunroof. So here we are, I said Martha this is your car – it has everything on it and the only thing it’s missing is a sunroof. It’s like it’s meant to be! And I truly believe it was. Martha, not so much . . .
Now here’s what came to me early one Wednesday morning. I knew I had to share with you, so I wrote myself a note. I know Martha secretly loved that car – it took both of us, but we finally hit the mark with the Regal GS. In retrospect, it actually carries a very special message to the rest of us about Martha – A sign, I believe. Who possibly could have known? I certainly never put it together. The “GS” in Regal GS stands for “Gran Sport”
My Aunt Martha was a “Gran Sport.” With everything medical she had to deal with since the age of four, she was a “Gran Sport.” The way Martha approached life – and the special challenges in her life – she truly and indeed was a “Gran Sport.”
Thanks be to God for my Aunt Martha – the comfort I find in her life, and in her Buick. We should all go through life facing all the everyday challenges like Martha did – by being “Gran Sports.”
Bill Kremer
Friday, April 22, 2011
Good Friday - April 22, 2011
O Love Divine, What Hast Thou Done
O Love divine, what has thou done!
The immortal God hath died for me!
The Father's coeternal Son
bore all my sins upon the tree.
Th' immortal God for me hath died:
My Lord, my Love, is crucified!
Is crucified for me and you,
to bring us rebels back to God.
Believe, believe the record true,
ye all are bought with Jesus' blood.
Pardon for all flows from his side:
My Lord, my Love, is crucified!
Behold him, all ye that pass by,
the bleeding Prince of life and peace!
Come, sinners, see your Savior die,
and say, "Was ever grief like his?"
Come, feel with me his blood applied:
My Lord, my Love, is crucified!
Charles Wesley
O Love divine, what has thou done!
The immortal God hath died for me!
The Father's coeternal Son
bore all my sins upon the tree.
Th' immortal God for me hath died:
My Lord, my Love, is crucified!
Is crucified for me and you,
to bring us rebels back to God.
Believe, believe the record true,
ye all are bought with Jesus' blood.
Pardon for all flows from his side:
My Lord, my Love, is crucified!
Behold him, all ye that pass by,
the bleeding Prince of life and peace!
Come, sinners, see your Savior die,
and say, "Was ever grief like his?"
Come, feel with me his blood applied:
My Lord, my Love, is crucified!
Charles Wesley
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Maundy Thursday - April 21, 2011
Bread and Wine
Read John 6:35-58; Hebrews 10:1-25
Bread of the world, in mercy brokenWine of the soul, in mercy shed,By whom the words of life were spoken,And in whose death our sins are dead. Bread of the World by Reginald Heber (UM Hymnal #624)
Communion. The Eucharist. The Mass. The Last Supper. The Passover.
What is it that happens when we participate in Communion? Are we commemorating the Last Supper? Are we looking forward to that Heavenly Feast? Are we celebrating a special closeness with the Lord Jesus? Yes, we are.
The elements, the bread and wine, are taken from the Passover meal celebrated by Jesus with His disciples before His Crucifixion. They are a part of the tradition of the Jews from the days of the Exodus down to our own day, and they truly foreshadowed the sacrifice Christ was to make for us. So when we take Communion, we take part in that long line of history; but that’s not the whole story!
“This is My Body” “This is My Blood” The ceremony, as completed by Jesus, not only took in the Passover, but the whole sacrificial system under which His people had been living since the days of Moses. Think what a devout Jew would have seen at the Temple: the sacrifice was literally a bloody affair. The blood of the sacrifice was sprinkled on the altar, and covered the sins of the people.
But what happens in Communion? The blood of Jesus doesn’t merely cover our sins, leaving us needing another dose later. The blood of Jesus cleanses us from our sins; and the word in the Bible is in a tense that lets us know that it not only has cleansed us, but it keeps on cleansing us of all unrighteousness.
What is it that happens when we participate in Communion? We celebrate the amazing Love of God for us; a Love expressed in the life, death, and resurrection of His Son, our Lord - Jesus Christ. Feed on Him, and know that in Him you are forgiven.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come to You confidently in prayer, knowing I stand cleansed by the blood of Your Son, Jesus. In His name I ask that the Holy Spirit who indwells me will make me ever more aware of the fellowship I share, both with You and with other believers. Thank you for the sacrament, and for allowing me to share in it. Amen.
Thought for the Day: Too soon we rise; the symbols disappear;the feast, though not the love, is past and gone.The bread and wine remove; but thou art here,nearer than ever, still my shield and sun.
Charlie van Becelaere
Read John 6:35-58; Hebrews 10:1-25
Bread of the world, in mercy brokenWine of the soul, in mercy shed,By whom the words of life were spoken,And in whose death our sins are dead. Bread of the World by Reginald Heber (UM Hymnal #624)
Communion. The Eucharist. The Mass. The Last Supper. The Passover.
What is it that happens when we participate in Communion? Are we commemorating the Last Supper? Are we looking forward to that Heavenly Feast? Are we celebrating a special closeness with the Lord Jesus? Yes, we are.
The elements, the bread and wine, are taken from the Passover meal celebrated by Jesus with His disciples before His Crucifixion. They are a part of the tradition of the Jews from the days of the Exodus down to our own day, and they truly foreshadowed the sacrifice Christ was to make for us. So when we take Communion, we take part in that long line of history; but that’s not the whole story!
“This is My Body” “This is My Blood” The ceremony, as completed by Jesus, not only took in the Passover, but the whole sacrificial system under which His people had been living since the days of Moses. Think what a devout Jew would have seen at the Temple: the sacrifice was literally a bloody affair. The blood of the sacrifice was sprinkled on the altar, and covered the sins of the people.
But what happens in Communion? The blood of Jesus doesn’t merely cover our sins, leaving us needing another dose later. The blood of Jesus cleanses us from our sins; and the word in the Bible is in a tense that lets us know that it not only has cleansed us, but it keeps on cleansing us of all unrighteousness.
What is it that happens when we participate in Communion? We celebrate the amazing Love of God for us; a Love expressed in the life, death, and resurrection of His Son, our Lord - Jesus Christ. Feed on Him, and know that in Him you are forgiven.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come to You confidently in prayer, knowing I stand cleansed by the blood of Your Son, Jesus. In His name I ask that the Holy Spirit who indwells me will make me ever more aware of the fellowship I share, both with You and with other believers. Thank you for the sacrament, and for allowing me to share in it. Amen.
Thought for the Day: Too soon we rise; the symbols disappear;the feast, though not the love, is past and gone.The bread and wine remove; but thou art here,nearer than ever, still my shield and sun.
Charlie van Becelaere
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
April 20, 2011
Not Neglect My Gift
Read: 1 Timothy 4:13-15
Unto the stars I looked
No like could be the place again
Lost in self-being and will
The created was my apocalypse
When we went on our first Confirmation retreat, our first assignment was to listen to the night. That day I was starting to think about giving up my art of words. Somehow, though, the stars conveyed to me that I should tell the story of my existence through poetry. That I should “not neglect my gift.”
Dear God, help us to be ever mindful of the gifts we have received, and how they can help, whether it be mentally, physically, or emotionally. Amen
Emily Stowell
Read: 1 Timothy 4:13-15
Unto the stars I looked
No like could be the place again
Lost in self-being and will
The created was my apocalypse
When we went on our first Confirmation retreat, our first assignment was to listen to the night. That day I was starting to think about giving up my art of words. Somehow, though, the stars conveyed to me that I should tell the story of my existence through poetry. That I should “not neglect my gift.”
Dear God, help us to be ever mindful of the gifts we have received, and how they can help, whether it be mentally, physically, or emotionally. Amen
Emily Stowell
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
April 19, 2011
True Happiness Comes from Within
Read: Matthew 6:19-23
When I started studying for the Bar Exam last summer, it soon became very clear to me that if I didn’t start cutting out some time to relax and reflect each day, I would most likely end up certifiably insane by the time July rolled around. And so, I practiced yoga. I indulged in the occasional $10 chair massage from the nail salon down the street. I tried (mostly unsuccessfully) to meditate each morning for at least 15 minutes.
Perhaps most useful were the audiobooks I downloaded, which I listened to every day while I walked my dog. I listened to the “Seven Spiritual Laws” from Deepak Chopra and learned about “The Art of Happiness” from the Dalai Lama. Toward the end of my long reign of studying, my mom (perhaps sensing my possible nervous breakdown herself) sent a care packaged filled with books – including “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff” and other books of that nature.
Despite the various authors from different walks of life, it seemed all of these books had the same underlying theme: most of what we THINK is important in life simply isn’t. Most of what we THINK defines us doesn’t. While this idea wasn’t exactly new to me, it took on a new meaning against the backdrop of studying for what I thought was a life-defining, do-or-die exam. If I were to fail, I once thought, it was the sort of setback that made ME a failure as well.
I began to understand, as the summer went on, that whether I passed an exam or not, it wouldn’t define who I am. When I did pass (phew), but then found myself unemployed for close to five months (with all of one measly interview to my name), it was perhaps even more difficult to remember that whether or not I had a job did not define me, either. And when things got especially difficulty, and I was feeling especially dejected, I tried to remember back to the “laws” I learned over the summer – and I’m not talking about the ones that were tested on the bar exam.
Practice non-judgment (even of yourself). Accept people, situations and events as they occur. Trust that there is a reason things don’t always go your way. Seek your higher self. Practice compassion. Remember that true happiness comes from within. Relinquish your attachment to titles and possessions. Don’t sweat the small stuff.
These teachings aren’t based exclusively in Christianity. But in the spirit of Lent, which evokes self-reflection, sacrifice, and ultimately, renewal, I thought I would share those teachings that inspired me. I use them as daily reminders that most of my worries are wasteful, and that a person can only be truly happy once they are truly happy having nothing at all.
(I know, easier said than done. But worth consideration every once-in-awhile).
Beth Filice
Read: Matthew 6:19-23
When I started studying for the Bar Exam last summer, it soon became very clear to me that if I didn’t start cutting out some time to relax and reflect each day, I would most likely end up certifiably insane by the time July rolled around. And so, I practiced yoga. I indulged in the occasional $10 chair massage from the nail salon down the street. I tried (mostly unsuccessfully) to meditate each morning for at least 15 minutes.
Perhaps most useful were the audiobooks I downloaded, which I listened to every day while I walked my dog. I listened to the “Seven Spiritual Laws” from Deepak Chopra and learned about “The Art of Happiness” from the Dalai Lama. Toward the end of my long reign of studying, my mom (perhaps sensing my possible nervous breakdown herself) sent a care packaged filled with books – including “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff” and other books of that nature.
Despite the various authors from different walks of life, it seemed all of these books had the same underlying theme: most of what we THINK is important in life simply isn’t. Most of what we THINK defines us doesn’t. While this idea wasn’t exactly new to me, it took on a new meaning against the backdrop of studying for what I thought was a life-defining, do-or-die exam. If I were to fail, I once thought, it was the sort of setback that made ME a failure as well.
I began to understand, as the summer went on, that whether I passed an exam or not, it wouldn’t define who I am. When I did pass (phew), but then found myself unemployed for close to five months (with all of one measly interview to my name), it was perhaps even more difficult to remember that whether or not I had a job did not define me, either. And when things got especially difficulty, and I was feeling especially dejected, I tried to remember back to the “laws” I learned over the summer – and I’m not talking about the ones that were tested on the bar exam.
Practice non-judgment (even of yourself). Accept people, situations and events as they occur. Trust that there is a reason things don’t always go your way. Seek your higher self. Practice compassion. Remember that true happiness comes from within. Relinquish your attachment to titles and possessions. Don’t sweat the small stuff.
These teachings aren’t based exclusively in Christianity. But in the spirit of Lent, which evokes self-reflection, sacrifice, and ultimately, renewal, I thought I would share those teachings that inspired me. I use them as daily reminders that most of my worries are wasteful, and that a person can only be truly happy once they are truly happy having nothing at all.
(I know, easier said than done. But worth consideration every once-in-awhile).
Beth Filice
Monday, April 18, 2011
April 18, 2011
Just Because
Read: 1 John 4:19
The first time I met and got to hold my grandson, Logan, I knew I loved him. He’d just arrived in this world. He didn’t talk. He didn’t crawl. He didn’t play with me. He didn’t do anything. But, I knew I loved him. He didn’t need to do anything for my love. He is my grandson.
Logan is a year and a half old now. I just came back from a visit to California where he lives with my daughter, Laura, and my son-in-law, Eric. Logan walks now. He talks too. And, he plays with me down on the floor. He also will cry, throw an occasional tantrum and act “feisty” as my daughter, Laura, refers to it. I love him anyhow. I love him just because.
I’d like to think God loves me just the same way.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for the blessing of my grandson and for the real example of what your unconditional love is all about. Keep your examples coming. Amen.
Mike Bernhardt
Read: 1 John 4:19
The first time I met and got to hold my grandson, Logan, I knew I loved him. He’d just arrived in this world. He didn’t talk. He didn’t crawl. He didn’t play with me. He didn’t do anything. But, I knew I loved him. He didn’t need to do anything for my love. He is my grandson.
Logan is a year and a half old now. I just came back from a visit to California where he lives with my daughter, Laura, and my son-in-law, Eric. Logan walks now. He talks too. And, he plays with me down on the floor. He also will cry, throw an occasional tantrum and act “feisty” as my daughter, Laura, refers to it. I love him anyhow. I love him just because.
I’d like to think God loves me just the same way.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for the blessing of my grandson and for the real example of what your unconditional love is all about. Keep your examples coming. Amen.
Mike Bernhardt
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Palm Sunday - April 17, 2011
Depth of Mercy
Depth of mercy! Can there be
mercy still reserved for me?
Can my God his wrath forbear,
me, the chief of sinners, spare?
I have long withstood his grace,
long provoked him to his face,
would not hearken to his calls,
grieved him by a thousand falls.
I my Master have denied,
I afresh have crucified,
oft profaned his hallowed name,
put him to an open shame.
There for me the Savior stands,
shows his wounds and spreads his hands.
God is love! I know, I feel;
Jesus weeps and loves me still.
Now incline me to repent,
let me now my sins lament,
now my foul revolt deplore,
weep, believe, and sin no more.
Charles Wesley
Depth of mercy! Can there be
mercy still reserved for me?
Can my God his wrath forbear,
me, the chief of sinners, spare?
I have long withstood his grace,
long provoked him to his face,
would not hearken to his calls,
grieved him by a thousand falls.
I my Master have denied,
I afresh have crucified,
oft profaned his hallowed name,
put him to an open shame.
There for me the Savior stands,
shows his wounds and spreads his hands.
God is love! I know, I feel;
Jesus weeps and loves me still.
Now incline me to repent,
let me now my sins lament,
now my foul revolt deplore,
weep, believe, and sin no more.
Charles Wesley
Saturday, April 16, 2011
April 16, 2011
The Right SideRead: John 21: 3-13
The Lord said, “Fish off the Right side of the Boat.” So I always start on the Starboard quarter. We’ve taught a lot of kids to fish, we usually take them for 6-8 hour trips. Sometimes I think I like teaching the kids more than I do catching the fish. Naaawwww catching is best.
Last fall we had a chance to take a few United Methodist Youth out for fishing trip. We figured a daylong adventure but when we got to the dock we found we had 1 ½ hours. We had to go out, find fish, anchor the boat on fish, teach the crew to catch fish, catch fish, clean up, and return to the dock in an hour and a half. We’re pretty good but that’s a tall order. Of course I said a prayer. See Ta Ra Ra Boom Di Aye. The Bearhooks motto is the 139th Psalm.
The Lovely and Gracious Captain JeriLynn ran the boat out to one of our fishing holes while I rigged up some stuff, and she stopped the boat right on top of a school of hungry Perch. That’s why I love her. We caught 26 fish and kept 18 and were back to the dock only a fashionable 10 minutes late. The boys had a lot of fun and so did we. If you twist our arms we could be talked into doing that again.
P.S. The American Bass opener is June 18 this year, and the Bearhooks is available.
Ron Draper
Friday, April 15, 2011
April 15, 2011
A Renewed Spirit
Read: Romans 12:4-13
My father did not take our family camping. He said he had enough camping in North Africa, Sicily, Anzio, France, Germany, and Austria to last a lifetime. My parents did allow my sister and me to participate in Girl Scouts where we learned to love camping and the out-of-doors. My sister spent her summers at a camp near Cadillac and I attended church summer camp at Lake Louise. Mom and Dad did volunteer to be the MYF youth group leaders and went with us to Winter Retreat at Wesley Woods, and the annual canoeing adventure down the Rifle River. It was during the canoeing overnight that Mom and Dad ended up fighting for the backseat of the car to escape the tent. I have deep gratitude for the many hours my parent devoted to our church youth activities even when the activity included camping.
When Jack Giguere suggested 21 years ago that our church family participate in a weekend at a Lake Louise our family signed up. The retreat was led by Bob Keiss. The GPUMC Family Winter Retreat was born. Our church families have been traveling North ever since.
This year I was amazed and gladdened by the number of college age, single twenty something’s, and married couples, with and without children, in their 30 and 40’s that chose to come to Lake Louise this year. There were 18 children ages 2 to 12. Yes, those of us in our 50’s and 60’s attended also and played hard.
My spirit has been renewed by watching these families interact with each other, share games, equipment, transportation, and children’s medicine! There were 21 first timers attending. GPUMC was the only group that came to Lake Louise for the retreat season with youth!
Josh Dixon won my heart this year with his classroom “Traditions” poster on his experience at Lake Louise. New traditions this year were a campfire at the sledding site with hot chocolate provided, an evening campfire outside of the lodge complete with benches and smores! Besides trips to the skiing hill there were trips to Avalanche Bay, the local water park. Fresh talent was shared at the Saturday night “Really Big Shew”, from real tumbling, a clarinet trio, operatic aria, and the debut of a new product to keep you warm while sledding.
The people attending the retreat this year are the leaders of the WOW Program, Mother’s Day Out, ushers, finance, trustee, worship, nurture, UMW, youth group, VBS, choir, VIM, Workcamp, book studies, etc. They are our future. They have chosen to make church a priority and they enjoy being together. New friendships were made and old renewed.
So thank you Mom and Dad, and those that have nurtured me through my life to be a part of a great tradition. Church!
PS Think about joining the retreat next year. New all season buildings have been added so that larger numbers will be able to attend!
Lynn Van de Putte
Read: Romans 12:4-13
My father did not take our family camping. He said he had enough camping in North Africa, Sicily, Anzio, France, Germany, and Austria to last a lifetime. My parents did allow my sister and me to participate in Girl Scouts where we learned to love camping and the out-of-doors. My sister spent her summers at a camp near Cadillac and I attended church summer camp at Lake Louise. Mom and Dad did volunteer to be the MYF youth group leaders and went with us to Winter Retreat at Wesley Woods, and the annual canoeing adventure down the Rifle River. It was during the canoeing overnight that Mom and Dad ended up fighting for the backseat of the car to escape the tent. I have deep gratitude for the many hours my parent devoted to our church youth activities even when the activity included camping.
When Jack Giguere suggested 21 years ago that our church family participate in a weekend at a Lake Louise our family signed up. The retreat was led by Bob Keiss. The GPUMC Family Winter Retreat was born. Our church families have been traveling North ever since.
This year I was amazed and gladdened by the number of college age, single twenty something’s, and married couples, with and without children, in their 30 and 40’s that chose to come to Lake Louise this year. There were 18 children ages 2 to 12. Yes, those of us in our 50’s and 60’s attended also and played hard.
My spirit has been renewed by watching these families interact with each other, share games, equipment, transportation, and children’s medicine! There were 21 first timers attending. GPUMC was the only group that came to Lake Louise for the retreat season with youth!
Josh Dixon won my heart this year with his classroom “Traditions” poster on his experience at Lake Louise. New traditions this year were a campfire at the sledding site with hot chocolate provided, an evening campfire outside of the lodge complete with benches and smores! Besides trips to the skiing hill there were trips to Avalanche Bay, the local water park. Fresh talent was shared at the Saturday night “Really Big Shew”, from real tumbling, a clarinet trio, operatic aria, and the debut of a new product to keep you warm while sledding.
The people attending the retreat this year are the leaders of the WOW Program, Mother’s Day Out, ushers, finance, trustee, worship, nurture, UMW, youth group, VBS, choir, VIM, Workcamp, book studies, etc. They are our future. They have chosen to make church a priority and they enjoy being together. New friendships were made and old renewed.
So thank you Mom and Dad, and those that have nurtured me through my life to be a part of a great tradition. Church!
PS Think about joining the retreat next year. New all season buildings have been added so that larger numbers will be able to attend!
Lynn Van de Putte
Thursday, April 14, 2011
April 14, 2011
Life’s Puddles of Water and an Umbrella
Read: Psalm 91
“The Lord will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge.”
Psalm 91:4
As we walk in the rain in the spring, we carry an umbrella to protect us from getting wet. Sometimes because of rain there are ‘puddles’ of water which we must step in or jump over. If we have no feet protection we get wet. In life we encounter ‘puddles’ of water over which we must jump. Even if we have an umbrella, we will still experience wet feet.
These ‘puddles’ sometimes are sickness, loss of a job, loss of a beloved one, depression, difficult decisions or any array of challenges which life brings. Isn’t it comforting to know that the Lord covers us and protects from all troubles and is there covering us with His wings of refuge! Even though our path might be an obstacle course, His wings protect us and His presence guides us.
Prayer: Dear Lord we ask you to protect, protect and guide us through the ‘puddles’ of life with your wings of refuge. We find comfort in knowing that you know our needs before we do.
Amen
Carolyn Barth
Read: Psalm 91
“The Lord will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge.”
Psalm 91:4
As we walk in the rain in the spring, we carry an umbrella to protect us from getting wet. Sometimes because of rain there are ‘puddles’ of water which we must step in or jump over. If we have no feet protection we get wet. In life we encounter ‘puddles’ of water over which we must jump. Even if we have an umbrella, we will still experience wet feet.
These ‘puddles’ sometimes are sickness, loss of a job, loss of a beloved one, depression, difficult decisions or any array of challenges which life brings. Isn’t it comforting to know that the Lord covers us and protects from all troubles and is there covering us with His wings of refuge! Even though our path might be an obstacle course, His wings protect us and His presence guides us.
Prayer: Dear Lord we ask you to protect, protect and guide us through the ‘puddles’ of life with your wings of refuge. We find comfort in knowing that you know our needs before we do.
Amen
Carolyn Barth
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
April 13, 2011
First Fruits versus Leftovers
Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever shows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.- 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 (NIV)
The poor economy and how it impacts people, organizations and our government has been weighing heavily on my mind. What is the right way to handle the economic crisis that is facing us? Who should be making sacrifices? What is fair to ask of people? The church is in a unique position in this economic crisis. Unlike businesses or families, the church does not generate income by selling it’s services. Unlike most non-profits it does not charge for its services. Unlike private clubs it does not charge membership fees or dues and unlike the government it cannot levy taxes. The church relies solely on donations. In challenging economic times we cannot be surprised when the church is also facing a reduction in donations. The irony in that is during the times when our giving is down, people need the church more than ever. Our recent church history shows that giving totals are down and the numbers of pledging units are down. Our church has made sincere efforts to cut back on our expenses, to reorganize our financial obligations and to make our dollars stretch in areas where they are needed the most. Of course there is no quick fix or easy answer, but during this period of Lent I’d like to ask each one of us to explore if we are doing as much as we can.
Why do we give? Because God has blessed us. Because we have been given the gift of grace through Christ. Because we are grateful. Because we are given the example of giving in scripture. Because we want to praise and glorify God. Because the Holy Spirit directs us to follow the example of Christ’s giving. Because we are called to help those less fortunate. Because we may have made a promise to God to give. There are many reasons to give but few mandates. In the Old Testament, people were clearly directed to give a tithe (or tenth) and to give of the first fruits or best. In the New Testament we are asked to give freely and generously (2 Cor. 9:7) to give based on what you have, not on what you don’t have (Luke 6:38), to give in the right spirit and attitude (Mark 12: 41-44), to give of what we are given so we can build up the church (Romans 12:4-8). As Methodists we are encouraged to tithe and taught the purpose of tithing is to teach us to always put God first in our lives.
Why do we hold back on our giving? Most of us will say because we have too many demands on our income. Are those demands self inflicted? Is it the high cost of living or the cost of living high? Are those demands the result of poor financial planning or judgment? Are you concerned the church is not using its gifts appropriately? Have you offered your help on church committees so that you can educate yourself on church finances? Are you limiting your giving because you think other people aren’t giving what they should? Although it is helpful to see that shared responsibility lightens the load for everyone, no one should give solely based on how they think they compare to others. Are you holding back on giving to the church because you are giving elsewhere? Are those gifts to truly benevolent groups? Are those gifts to our own family. Are you withholding giving because you haven’t been personally approached? Are you withholding giving because your gifts aren’t recognized? Whatever the reason, ask God to help you examine your motives. Are you giving out of your abundance or are you giving sacrificially? Are you giving of yourself as well as your resources? Are you being a wise steward of the gifts that have been entrusted to you? Are you sustaining the church or are you are on religious welfare? Are you practicing planned giving or are you giving from your leftovers.
Why should we make a planned pledge to the church? You will have the satisfaction of knowing you have committed to God from your first fruits, not your leftovers. You will have the satisfaction of knowing the church can count on you. You will be taking a step in faith and trusting God to provide you with the means and discipline to give a regular gift. You may be challenging yourself to do more than you thought you could—great accomplishments are not made when cowering in fear and uncertainty but when you challenge yourself to do more than you thought you could. Pledging gives you the joy of sharing in the rewards of your faith. Pledging enables you to put your money where your mouth is. It is a step to accountability with God. Don’t be misled in thinking you can buy your way into heaven or into God’s grace. But don’t be misled into thinking what we failed to give does not impact our very spirit and soul.
We have been blessed so abundantly. The church has blessed us so abundantly. Is my giving an accurate reflection of my gratitude to God?
Prayer Focus: For churches struggling with their budgets.
Prayer: Thank you Father for the abundance that we have been given. Thank you for the ministry of Grosse Pointe United Methodist Church in my life. Guide me to live in a spirit of thankfulness and to give you from my first fruits, not my leftovers.
Pat Deck
Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever shows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.- 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 (NIV)
The poor economy and how it impacts people, organizations and our government has been weighing heavily on my mind. What is the right way to handle the economic crisis that is facing us? Who should be making sacrifices? What is fair to ask of people? The church is in a unique position in this economic crisis. Unlike businesses or families, the church does not generate income by selling it’s services. Unlike most non-profits it does not charge for its services. Unlike private clubs it does not charge membership fees or dues and unlike the government it cannot levy taxes. The church relies solely on donations. In challenging economic times we cannot be surprised when the church is also facing a reduction in donations. The irony in that is during the times when our giving is down, people need the church more than ever. Our recent church history shows that giving totals are down and the numbers of pledging units are down. Our church has made sincere efforts to cut back on our expenses, to reorganize our financial obligations and to make our dollars stretch in areas where they are needed the most. Of course there is no quick fix or easy answer, but during this period of Lent I’d like to ask each one of us to explore if we are doing as much as we can.
Why do we give? Because God has blessed us. Because we have been given the gift of grace through Christ. Because we are grateful. Because we are given the example of giving in scripture. Because we want to praise and glorify God. Because the Holy Spirit directs us to follow the example of Christ’s giving. Because we are called to help those less fortunate. Because we may have made a promise to God to give. There are many reasons to give but few mandates. In the Old Testament, people were clearly directed to give a tithe (or tenth) and to give of the first fruits or best. In the New Testament we are asked to give freely and generously (2 Cor. 9:7) to give based on what you have, not on what you don’t have (Luke 6:38), to give in the right spirit and attitude (Mark 12: 41-44), to give of what we are given so we can build up the church (Romans 12:4-8). As Methodists we are encouraged to tithe and taught the purpose of tithing is to teach us to always put God first in our lives.
Why do we hold back on our giving? Most of us will say because we have too many demands on our income. Are those demands self inflicted? Is it the high cost of living or the cost of living high? Are those demands the result of poor financial planning or judgment? Are you concerned the church is not using its gifts appropriately? Have you offered your help on church committees so that you can educate yourself on church finances? Are you limiting your giving because you think other people aren’t giving what they should? Although it is helpful to see that shared responsibility lightens the load for everyone, no one should give solely based on how they think they compare to others. Are you holding back on giving to the church because you are giving elsewhere? Are those gifts to truly benevolent groups? Are those gifts to our own family. Are you withholding giving because you haven’t been personally approached? Are you withholding giving because your gifts aren’t recognized? Whatever the reason, ask God to help you examine your motives. Are you giving out of your abundance or are you giving sacrificially? Are you giving of yourself as well as your resources? Are you being a wise steward of the gifts that have been entrusted to you? Are you sustaining the church or are you are on religious welfare? Are you practicing planned giving or are you giving from your leftovers.
Why should we make a planned pledge to the church? You will have the satisfaction of knowing you have committed to God from your first fruits, not your leftovers. You will have the satisfaction of knowing the church can count on you. You will be taking a step in faith and trusting God to provide you with the means and discipline to give a regular gift. You may be challenging yourself to do more than you thought you could—great accomplishments are not made when cowering in fear and uncertainty but when you challenge yourself to do more than you thought you could. Pledging gives you the joy of sharing in the rewards of your faith. Pledging enables you to put your money where your mouth is. It is a step to accountability with God. Don’t be misled in thinking you can buy your way into heaven or into God’s grace. But don’t be misled into thinking what we failed to give does not impact our very spirit and soul.
We have been blessed so abundantly. The church has blessed us so abundantly. Is my giving an accurate reflection of my gratitude to God?
Prayer Focus: For churches struggling with their budgets.
Prayer: Thank you Father for the abundance that we have been given. Thank you for the ministry of Grosse Pointe United Methodist Church in my life. Guide me to live in a spirit of thankfulness and to give you from my first fruits, not my leftovers.
Pat Deck
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
April 12, 2011
Be still …….
Read: Psalm 46:1-11
Last spring the doctor told me I needed to have an MRI. It is not one of my favorite things to do but what could I do? The scan was scheduled and I was slid into the tube. I was trying so hard to be still so the test could be over. A little over halfway the technician said I needed to stop moving. I thought I was being still but I tried harder. The more I concentrated on being still, the more I noticed my breathing. The breathing was the movement they were complaining about. When they asked me again to stop moving, I told them all I was doing was breathing. They said I had to stop or the test would be invalid. I took a breath and tried to hold it but that was a useless plan. Being in the tube was starting to get to me and having to stay there to repeat some series was not what I wanted to hear. I needed this to be over.
I silently asked, “God how am I supposed to do this and breathe?” As the technician again threatened to stop the scan again an old hymn popped into my head. I started remembering the words to the hymn and then another and another. Before I realized it, the scan was complete and the technician said the pictures would be clear.
A peace had crept over me as the words to old familiar hymns came to mind. From old Sunday School favorites like Jesus Loves Me to familiar Sunday morning hymns one song after another flowed through my mind. I am sure the verses in my mind were not exactly as written in the hymnal, but they brought a peace and calmness that helped me get through the scan and I thank God for it.
The first part of Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God,” comes to mind as I recall the experience. I needed to remember that God is always present if I just give him a chance to help me. In times of panic and stress it is the old familiar hymns that easily come to mind. The beautiful words that have stayed with me brought me peace.
I survived and life goes on. I continue to be grateful and thank God that He was there that day and helped me through. I try to begin each day with a few minutes of stillness to read a devotion, and chat with God.
Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for being part of my life. I ask you to help me through another day. I thank you for the many adult and child Sunday School teachers and fellow members of the many congregations I have been lucky enough to be part of. I thank you for the hymns on Sunday mornings that allowed me to have the recall to get me through. Amen
Gretchen Brammer
Read: Psalm 46:1-11
Last spring the doctor told me I needed to have an MRI. It is not one of my favorite things to do but what could I do? The scan was scheduled and I was slid into the tube. I was trying so hard to be still so the test could be over. A little over halfway the technician said I needed to stop moving. I thought I was being still but I tried harder. The more I concentrated on being still, the more I noticed my breathing. The breathing was the movement they were complaining about. When they asked me again to stop moving, I told them all I was doing was breathing. They said I had to stop or the test would be invalid. I took a breath and tried to hold it but that was a useless plan. Being in the tube was starting to get to me and having to stay there to repeat some series was not what I wanted to hear. I needed this to be over.
I silently asked, “God how am I supposed to do this and breathe?” As the technician again threatened to stop the scan again an old hymn popped into my head. I started remembering the words to the hymn and then another and another. Before I realized it, the scan was complete and the technician said the pictures would be clear.
A peace had crept over me as the words to old familiar hymns came to mind. From old Sunday School favorites like Jesus Loves Me to familiar Sunday morning hymns one song after another flowed through my mind. I am sure the verses in my mind were not exactly as written in the hymnal, but they brought a peace and calmness that helped me get through the scan and I thank God for it.
The first part of Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God,” comes to mind as I recall the experience. I needed to remember that God is always present if I just give him a chance to help me. In times of panic and stress it is the old familiar hymns that easily come to mind. The beautiful words that have stayed with me brought me peace.
I survived and life goes on. I continue to be grateful and thank God that He was there that day and helped me through. I try to begin each day with a few minutes of stillness to read a devotion, and chat with God.
Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for being part of my life. I ask you to help me through another day. I thank you for the many adult and child Sunday School teachers and fellow members of the many congregations I have been lucky enough to be part of. I thank you for the hymns on Sunday mornings that allowed me to have the recall to get me through. Amen
Gretchen Brammer
Monday, April 11, 2011
April 11, 2011
31,556,926
Read: Revelation 5:9-14
That’s one big number. Thirty one million five hundred fifty six thousand nine hundred twenty six. It is in fact the number of seconds in one year. Holy cow that’s a lot of seconds! It kind of makes you wonder how you spend those seconds. There are a whole lot of them and there are so many different ways to use them.
When I think of that number and all those seconds, it makes me think about whether or not I used those seconds for the right things, or if I wasted them. I come home from school, get on Facebook, talk on the phone with my friends, do a little homework, and then go to bed. At the moment I don’t feel like I’m wasting any time at all but on paper it really does look like a lot wasted.
I think about how much time I’ve given to friends, or school, or family, or God. And when it comes down to it, the fewest of them would probably be family or God. It seems crazy that out of those 31,556,926 seconds the smallest amount of my time has been spent on the important things like family and God, when I should be spending the majority of my time on those things.
A couple weeks ago I went on a church retreat with a friend of mine, and the theme of the weekend was that God is worthy of our praise. They told us that true worship is not going to church two or three times a week, and it wasn’t going to this retreat for the whole weekend. And even though we spend time worshiping God in both those places, we have to realize that worship doesn’t turn on or off as an event. God is worthy of the majority of our time, the majority of those 31,556,926 seconds. “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” Revelation 5:12 God is worthy of our praise. I want to spend more of my seconds on Him.
Worship is 1
Worship is 12
Worship is 52
Worship is 365
Worship is 24/7
Worship is 86,000
Worship is 31,556,926
How will you spend your seconds?
Kayla Rumpp
Read: Revelation 5:9-14
That’s one big number. Thirty one million five hundred fifty six thousand nine hundred twenty six. It is in fact the number of seconds in one year. Holy cow that’s a lot of seconds! It kind of makes you wonder how you spend those seconds. There are a whole lot of them and there are so many different ways to use them.
When I think of that number and all those seconds, it makes me think about whether or not I used those seconds for the right things, or if I wasted them. I come home from school, get on Facebook, talk on the phone with my friends, do a little homework, and then go to bed. At the moment I don’t feel like I’m wasting any time at all but on paper it really does look like a lot wasted.
I think about how much time I’ve given to friends, or school, or family, or God. And when it comes down to it, the fewest of them would probably be family or God. It seems crazy that out of those 31,556,926 seconds the smallest amount of my time has been spent on the important things like family and God, when I should be spending the majority of my time on those things.
A couple weeks ago I went on a church retreat with a friend of mine, and the theme of the weekend was that God is worthy of our praise. They told us that true worship is not going to church two or three times a week, and it wasn’t going to this retreat for the whole weekend. And even though we spend time worshiping God in both those places, we have to realize that worship doesn’t turn on or off as an event. God is worthy of the majority of our time, the majority of those 31,556,926 seconds. “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” Revelation 5:12 God is worthy of our praise. I want to spend more of my seconds on Him.
Worship is 1
Worship is 12
Worship is 52
Worship is 365
Worship is 24/7
Worship is 86,000
Worship is 31,556,926
How will you spend your seconds?
Kayla Rumpp
Sunday, April 10, 2011
April 10, 2011
Come, O Thou Traveler Unknown
Come, O thou Traveler unknown,
Whom still I hold, but cannot see!
My company before is gone,
And I am left alone with Thee;
With Thee all night I mean to stay,
And wrestle till the break of day.
I need not tell Thee who I am,
My misery and sin declare;
Thyself hast called me by my name,
Look on Thy hands, and read it there;
But who, I ask Thee, who art Thou?
Tell me Thy name, and tell me now.
In vain Thou strugglest to get free,
I never will unloose my hold!
Art Thou the Man that died for me?
The secret of Thy love unfold;
Wrestling, I will not let Thee go,
Till I Thy name, Thy nature know.
My strength is gone, my nature dies,
I sink beneath Thy weighty hand,
Faint to revive, and fall to rise;
I fall, and yet by faith I stand;
I stand and will not let Thee go
Till I Thy Name, Thy nature know.
’Tis Love! ’tis Love! Thou diedst for me!
I hear Thy whisper in my heart;
The morning breaks, the shadows flee,
Pure, universal love Thou art;
To me, to all, Thy bowels move;
Thy nature and Thy Name is Love.
Charles Wesley
Come, O thou Traveler unknown,
Whom still I hold, but cannot see!
My company before is gone,
And I am left alone with Thee;
With Thee all night I mean to stay,
And wrestle till the break of day.
I need not tell Thee who I am,
My misery and sin declare;
Thyself hast called me by my name,
Look on Thy hands, and read it there;
But who, I ask Thee, who art Thou?
Tell me Thy name, and tell me now.
In vain Thou strugglest to get free,
I never will unloose my hold!
Art Thou the Man that died for me?
The secret of Thy love unfold;
Wrestling, I will not let Thee go,
Till I Thy name, Thy nature know.
My strength is gone, my nature dies,
I sink beneath Thy weighty hand,
Faint to revive, and fall to rise;
I fall, and yet by faith I stand;
I stand and will not let Thee go
Till I Thy Name, Thy nature know.
’Tis Love! ’tis Love! Thou diedst for me!
I hear Thy whisper in my heart;
The morning breaks, the shadows flee,
Pure, universal love Thou art;
To me, to all, Thy bowels move;
Thy nature and Thy Name is Love.
Charles Wesley
Saturday, April 09, 2011
April 09, 2011
Intervention
Read: Psalm 37:3-6, 23-31
In February of 1929 it was still a good year. I grew up not knowing things had gotten bad. Through the depression my parents must have done a good job of keeping the family together and happy.
During the years of Kindergarten through the 12th grade, I lived in the right place (Grosse Pointe) to get a good education. It was not until the 10th grade I decided to go to college. The school system allowed me to get through in time to graduate.
I had been moving on and off between going to college and working. In 1951 I ended up being laid off from my job at the Chrysler Jefferson Plant and did not have enough money to go back to school.
Having been in the Naval Reserve for about 5 years, I signed up for active duty. It was the right choice, for after two years on a Destroyer Escort out of Newport RI, I was able to go back to school on the GI Bill and finish my degree in August of 1956.
Being “older” I had been invited to join the dormitory staff. A friend on the dormitory staff (Roger Wilkins) introduced me to his friend Sandy and her friend Shirley.
Not only was it the right thing to do (marry Shirley), but our children also did the right thing in the two people they married.
After all that, how can anybody believe there is no such thing as Divine Intervention.
Jack Van Becelaere
Read: Psalm 37:3-6, 23-31
In February of 1929 it was still a good year. I grew up not knowing things had gotten bad. Through the depression my parents must have done a good job of keeping the family together and happy.
During the years of Kindergarten through the 12th grade, I lived in the right place (Grosse Pointe) to get a good education. It was not until the 10th grade I decided to go to college. The school system allowed me to get through in time to graduate.
I had been moving on and off between going to college and working. In 1951 I ended up being laid off from my job at the Chrysler Jefferson Plant and did not have enough money to go back to school.
Having been in the Naval Reserve for about 5 years, I signed up for active duty. It was the right choice, for after two years on a Destroyer Escort out of Newport RI, I was able to go back to school on the GI Bill and finish my degree in August of 1956.
Being “older” I had been invited to join the dormitory staff. A friend on the dormitory staff (Roger Wilkins) introduced me to his friend Sandy and her friend Shirley.
Not only was it the right thing to do (marry Shirley), but our children also did the right thing in the two people they married.
After all that, how can anybody believe there is no such thing as Divine Intervention.
Jack Van Becelaere
Friday, April 08, 2011
April 08, 2011
All We Need is Love
Read: Colossians 3:12-17
The above reading is one that Garrett and I chose for our wedding; one of the many decisions involved in the wedding process. It seemed like every time we turned around we were asked to choose this or pick one of those. There are so many things that can pull you away from the real meaning of the day.
Weddings most definitely can take on a life of their own, but by the time the actual day comes, it is truly special. I can honestly say that our wedding was the most fun I have ever had in my entire life; and it's not because I loved my flowers, or my dress, or our reception, but because I was marrying my best friend and we were surrounded by the people we love most in the world and who love us.
There is no greater feeling than to be surrounded by that much joy and happiness. Love is a very powerful gift. And as the reading goes "clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.... And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."
Katie Broom
Read: Colossians 3:12-17
The above reading is one that Garrett and I chose for our wedding; one of the many decisions involved in the wedding process. It seemed like every time we turned around we were asked to choose this or pick one of those. There are so many things that can pull you away from the real meaning of the day.
Weddings most definitely can take on a life of their own, but by the time the actual day comes, it is truly special. I can honestly say that our wedding was the most fun I have ever had in my entire life; and it's not because I loved my flowers, or my dress, or our reception, but because I was marrying my best friend and we were surrounded by the people we love most in the world and who love us.
There is no greater feeling than to be surrounded by that much joy and happiness. Love is a very powerful gift. And as the reading goes "clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.... And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."
Katie Broom
Thursday, April 07, 2011
April 07, 2011
Open Hearts, Open Minds, and Open Doors
Read 1 Peter 4:8-11
That is the theme for a Welcoming Congregation.
Some of you will remember in the fall of 2009, our church focused on the Five Practices of a Fruitful Congregation during our stewardship campaign last year. They were Radical Hospitality, Passionate Worship, Intentional Faith Development, Risk-Taking Mission, and Extravagant Generosity. The Witness Committee volunteered to oversee the practice of Radical Hospitality for the campaign. A tailgate party hosted by Carolyn and Pete Franklin allowed church members to share a great meal, and gathered some feedback from the group about what our church was doing right, and how we could improve our hospitality.
At the All-Church meeting held in January to follow-up on the five practices, Witness lead a breakout session on radical hospitality. There we were introduced to the concept of becoming a Certified Welcoming Church. Doug Ross told the group about the Welcoming Church Certification Program. He and his wife Marilyn attended a church in Cape Cod that had this designation. They both indicated that their experience in the “welcoming” church was outstanding.
The Welcoming Church Certification is offered through a program sponsored by the United Methodist Church, through the Rethink Church campaign. Our committee felt that such a program would fit nicely with the direction our Witness/Caring Community Committee and would provide a framework to follow. So we approached the Ad Board of our church to see if we had support to proceed. We were given permission. So off we went.
Welcoming is how we show kindness, acceptance, and hospitality to everyone - guests and members alike. People catch glimpses of Christ through their encounters with us. We need to ensure that seekers encounter in us a Christ that they want to know better. Your welcoming efforts play a vital role in living the promise of "Open hearts, open minds open doors."
The Welcoming Church Certification program is a fairly rigorous process taking up to four years to complete. The beginning stages require an initial application to be submitted to the District Superintendent, and then on to United Methodist Communications in Nashville for approval.
There is an application checklist, with documentation of existing welcoming practices of our church. Each practice has a point value. A minimum of 100 points is needed to qualify for the first year of the award as a Welcoming Church. We submitted our initial application in September 2010, and our church received a plaque stating that we are a Welcoming church, phase 1 in October.
You may have noticed some of our efforts to date. The church narthex has been redecorated to be more warm and welcoming. Additional seating has been added. A welcome center has been designated with our church brochures and information. A more user friendly name tag board was created. Witness is hosting the 4th Sunday of the month for coffee hour. We started offering a little something special on those Sundays, such as treats, real cream and tables and chairs for conversation. The Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner program is a way to get to know and welcome church members. We are just beginning, but hopefully each effort will enhance our service to our members, our community and to God.
The idea is to get everyone in the church to consciously think and act as a welcoming church. Please stay tuned for more updates and we progress through the program. In the meantime, here is a small thing you can do to help. If you see someone in our church that you don’t know, reach out a hand and introduce yourself. It can make someone’s day.
For more information go on the United Methodist website. http://www.umcom.org/ then click on the Welcoming item in the Knowledge Center that comes up.
Nancy Grose & Karen Leigh
Read 1 Peter 4:8-11
That is the theme for a Welcoming Congregation.
Some of you will remember in the fall of 2009, our church focused on the Five Practices of a Fruitful Congregation during our stewardship campaign last year. They were Radical Hospitality, Passionate Worship, Intentional Faith Development, Risk-Taking Mission, and Extravagant Generosity. The Witness Committee volunteered to oversee the practice of Radical Hospitality for the campaign. A tailgate party hosted by Carolyn and Pete Franklin allowed church members to share a great meal, and gathered some feedback from the group about what our church was doing right, and how we could improve our hospitality.
At the All-Church meeting held in January to follow-up on the five practices, Witness lead a breakout session on radical hospitality. There we were introduced to the concept of becoming a Certified Welcoming Church. Doug Ross told the group about the Welcoming Church Certification Program. He and his wife Marilyn attended a church in Cape Cod that had this designation. They both indicated that their experience in the “welcoming” church was outstanding.
The Welcoming Church Certification is offered through a program sponsored by the United Methodist Church, through the Rethink Church campaign. Our committee felt that such a program would fit nicely with the direction our Witness/Caring Community Committee and would provide a framework to follow. So we approached the Ad Board of our church to see if we had support to proceed. We were given permission. So off we went.
Welcoming is how we show kindness, acceptance, and hospitality to everyone - guests and members alike. People catch glimpses of Christ through their encounters with us. We need to ensure that seekers encounter in us a Christ that they want to know better. Your welcoming efforts play a vital role in living the promise of "Open hearts, open minds open doors."
The Welcoming Church Certification program is a fairly rigorous process taking up to four years to complete. The beginning stages require an initial application to be submitted to the District Superintendent, and then on to United Methodist Communications in Nashville for approval.
There is an application checklist, with documentation of existing welcoming practices of our church. Each practice has a point value. A minimum of 100 points is needed to qualify for the first year of the award as a Welcoming Church. We submitted our initial application in September 2010, and our church received a plaque stating that we are a Welcoming church, phase 1 in October.
You may have noticed some of our efforts to date. The church narthex has been redecorated to be more warm and welcoming. Additional seating has been added. A welcome center has been designated with our church brochures and information. A more user friendly name tag board was created. Witness is hosting the 4th Sunday of the month for coffee hour. We started offering a little something special on those Sundays, such as treats, real cream and tables and chairs for conversation. The Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner program is a way to get to know and welcome church members. We are just beginning, but hopefully each effort will enhance our service to our members, our community and to God.
The idea is to get everyone in the church to consciously think and act as a welcoming church. Please stay tuned for more updates and we progress through the program. In the meantime, here is a small thing you can do to help. If you see someone in our church that you don’t know, reach out a hand and introduce yourself. It can make someone’s day.
For more information go on the United Methodist website. http://www.umcom.org/ then click on the Welcoming item in the Knowledge Center that comes up.
Nancy Grose & Karen Leigh
Wednesday, April 06, 2011
April 06, 2011
It’s a Wonderful Life
Read: Philippians 4:4-7
I have a great life – Jack, our kids and their families, good health, good friends, good church family.
I thank God every day for all our blessings.
It is a wonderful life!
Shirley Van Becelaere
Read: Philippians 4:4-7
I have a great life – Jack, our kids and their families, good health, good friends, good church family.
I thank God every day for all our blessings.
It is a wonderful life!
Shirley Van Becelaere
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
April 05, 2011
Wings of Mercy
O taste and see that the Lord is good;
Blessed is the man that trusted in him.
Psalm 34:8
We praise God for his blessings and presence in our lives. This year our understanding of family, friend and God’s love deepened.
On July 10th, I suffered a Red Stroke, a bleed. Since we did not recognize it as a stroke, I did not get medical help until July 12th. According to my doctors, must people that experience a red stroke and are not treated immediately end up in a coma or dead. I was a miracle.
A doctor said to me, “Karen you are lucky to be alive, apparently you still have a job to do here.” That made me sit up and take notice.
My friends have asked me, “Do you know how many people were praying for you?” I’m grateful for all those prayers. Thank you.
When I finally became myself days after my stroke, I wanted to be assured of God’s love and presence in my life. I asked for a Chaplain to pray with me and share God’s love with me. I needed a prayer quilt to feel surrounded by God’s love. Thank you for giving me one to comfort me.
I found this meditation and it explains just how I felt.
“During those seasons when your strength seems almost gone, be assured that God is beside you, ready to sweep you up onto his mighty wings of mercy and grace. There you find rest, comfort and healing for your broken hearts and wounded spirits.”
God when my life seems unbearably painful, I will place my hope in you. I will forsake my own failing strength and rest on your wings of mercy. Amen
Karen Bromley
O taste and see that the Lord is good;
Blessed is the man that trusted in him.
Psalm 34:8
We praise God for his blessings and presence in our lives. This year our understanding of family, friend and God’s love deepened.
On July 10th, I suffered a Red Stroke, a bleed. Since we did not recognize it as a stroke, I did not get medical help until July 12th. According to my doctors, must people that experience a red stroke and are not treated immediately end up in a coma or dead. I was a miracle.
A doctor said to me, “Karen you are lucky to be alive, apparently you still have a job to do here.” That made me sit up and take notice.
My friends have asked me, “Do you know how many people were praying for you?” I’m grateful for all those prayers. Thank you.
When I finally became myself days after my stroke, I wanted to be assured of God’s love and presence in my life. I asked for a Chaplain to pray with me and share God’s love with me. I needed a prayer quilt to feel surrounded by God’s love. Thank you for giving me one to comfort me.
I found this meditation and it explains just how I felt.
“During those seasons when your strength seems almost gone, be assured that God is beside you, ready to sweep you up onto his mighty wings of mercy and grace. There you find rest, comfort and healing for your broken hearts and wounded spirits.”
God when my life seems unbearably painful, I will place my hope in you. I will forsake my own failing strength and rest on your wings of mercy. Amen
Karen Bromley
Monday, April 04, 2011
April 04, 2011
Till The Cows Come Home
Read: Luke 15:4-7
Living in rural Tennessee has exposed me to a very different set of neighbors. The ones I’m referring to here are the cows, sheep and horses. (I’ll focus on the people in a different devotion some day.) I am surrounded by mooing and bleating. One day there was a lot of loud and pitiful mooing. The first thought I had was that one of the young cows had gotten itself stuck in the fence. After a while I noticed a trailer going down my neighbor’s drive and out into the street. A cow chased it as far as it could along the fence, mooing the entire time. Inside the trailer was a baby cow mooing back. After the baby left, its mother stayed by the fence mooing. In fact the mooing continued all day and, according to my daughter whose bedroom is on that side of the house, all night too.
Even now I am heartbroken at the memory of both of their pitiful cries. In Luke 15, Jesus’ message about a shepherd not giving up on even one sheep, shows that same commitment. On the days when I clean out our horses’ stalls, the silence gives me time to think. I often think about my children (not because the horse manure reminds me of them!) No matter what problem I’m considering, I always know that nothing could ever make me stop loving them or wanting them to be a part of my life. When I think of all three of these things, I can hear Heidi singing “Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling” (UMH 348)
So if a cow, a shepherd and a human mother refuse to give up on their charges, how could we ever think that God would give up on any of us? Certainly the love and commitment we can feel and imagine can’t compare at all to the love and commitment God feels for us. He will call to us, He will search for us, and He will always want us to be a part of His family. If God loves and accepts us all, shouldn’t we also love and accept each other?
Prayer: Thank you God for your unconditional love. Help us to accept and love each other. Help us also to hear your call and to come to you. Amen.
Jacki Rumpp
Read: Luke 15:4-7
Living in rural Tennessee has exposed me to a very different set of neighbors. The ones I’m referring to here are the cows, sheep and horses. (I’ll focus on the people in a different devotion some day.) I am surrounded by mooing and bleating. One day there was a lot of loud and pitiful mooing. The first thought I had was that one of the young cows had gotten itself stuck in the fence. After a while I noticed a trailer going down my neighbor’s drive and out into the street. A cow chased it as far as it could along the fence, mooing the entire time. Inside the trailer was a baby cow mooing back. After the baby left, its mother stayed by the fence mooing. In fact the mooing continued all day and, according to my daughter whose bedroom is on that side of the house, all night too.
Even now I am heartbroken at the memory of both of their pitiful cries. In Luke 15, Jesus’ message about a shepherd not giving up on even one sheep, shows that same commitment. On the days when I clean out our horses’ stalls, the silence gives me time to think. I often think about my children (not because the horse manure reminds me of them!) No matter what problem I’m considering, I always know that nothing could ever make me stop loving them or wanting them to be a part of my life. When I think of all three of these things, I can hear Heidi singing “Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling” (UMH 348)
So if a cow, a shepherd and a human mother refuse to give up on their charges, how could we ever think that God would give up on any of us? Certainly the love and commitment we can feel and imagine can’t compare at all to the love and commitment God feels for us. He will call to us, He will search for us, and He will always want us to be a part of His family. If God loves and accepts us all, shouldn’t we also love and accept each other?
Prayer: Thank you God for your unconditional love. Help us to accept and love each other. Help us also to hear your call and to come to you. Amen.
Jacki Rumpp
Sunday, April 03, 2011
April 03, 2011
And Can it Be That I Should Gain?
And can it be that I should gain
an interest in the Savior's blood!
Died he for me? who caused his pain!
For me? who him to death pursued?
Amazing love! How can it be
that thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
Amazing love! How can it be
that thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
'Tis mystery all: th' Immortal dies!
Who can explore his strange design?
In vain the firstborn seraph tries
to sound the depths of love divine.
'Tis mercy all! Let earth adore;
let angel minds inquire no more.
'Tis mercy all! Let earth adore;
let angel minds inquire no more.
Long my imprisoned spirit lay,
fast bound in sin and nature's night;
thine eye diffused a quickening ray;
I woke, the dungeon flamed with light;
my chains fell off, my heart was free,
I rose, went forth, and followed thee.
My chains fell off, my heart was free,
I rose, went forth, and followed thee.
No condemnation now I dread;
Jesus, and all in him, is mine;
alive in him, my living Head,
and clothed in righteousness divine,
bold I approach th' eternal throne,
and claim the crown, through Christ my own.
Bold I approach th' eternal throne,
and claim the crown, through Christ my own.
Charles Wesley
And can it be that I should gain
an interest in the Savior's blood!
Died he for me? who caused his pain!
For me? who him to death pursued?
Amazing love! How can it be
that thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
Amazing love! How can it be
that thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
'Tis mystery all: th' Immortal dies!
Who can explore his strange design?
In vain the firstborn seraph tries
to sound the depths of love divine.
'Tis mercy all! Let earth adore;
let angel minds inquire no more.
'Tis mercy all! Let earth adore;
let angel minds inquire no more.
Long my imprisoned spirit lay,
fast bound in sin and nature's night;
thine eye diffused a quickening ray;
I woke, the dungeon flamed with light;
my chains fell off, my heart was free,
I rose, went forth, and followed thee.
My chains fell off, my heart was free,
I rose, went forth, and followed thee.
No condemnation now I dread;
Jesus, and all in him, is mine;
alive in him, my living Head,
and clothed in righteousness divine,
bold I approach th' eternal throne,
and claim the crown, through Christ my own.
Bold I approach th' eternal throne,
and claim the crown, through Christ my own.
Charles Wesley
Saturday, April 02, 2011
April 02, 2011
A Random Act of Kindness
Read James 2:1-4
A few weeks ago I was helping out at the annual Detroit Winter Blast in support of Matrix Human Services which the designated charity for the event. My job was simple. Stand at the entry gate and collect a book, a canned food donation or a dollar. Proceeds would be distributed to those in need.
As you can imagine, many forgot their food and or book donation so I was collecting a lot of dollar bills and making change. As is my habit, I did not really read all the directions for volunteers, and came to the event dressed warmly, but with mittens, which are not ideal for making change. So I abandoned the mittens.
My shift was the last shift of the last day, so we were short of volunteers at my station. That made me a little nervous, as I had a lot of dollar bills in my Home Depot apron. There was a woman standing by the entryway who looked a little “rough around the edges”. She was talking to me periodically, and it was evident she had had a few cocktails. Again, I felt a little nervous.
After a bit the woman approached me with a pair of fingerless gloves. She said, “please take these, they will keep your hands warm, and you can still make change.” I looked at her in surprise, and protested that she should keep her gloves. She opened her coat and said, “look, I have an extra pair of gloves, please use the fingerless gloves.” I thanked, her and donned the gloves. She was correct, the gloves really helped keep me warm.
But the woman did more for me than just keep my hands warm that day. She reminded me of so many lessons taught by Jesus. They were lessons, I temporarily forgot. Jesus taught us not to judge others. Jesus taught us to be generous. Jesus taught us that a gift from someone with limited means is a very special gift. There is nothing like receiving a random act of kindness to adjust one’s perspective.
Nancy Grose
Read James 2:1-4
A few weeks ago I was helping out at the annual Detroit Winter Blast in support of Matrix Human Services which the designated charity for the event. My job was simple. Stand at the entry gate and collect a book, a canned food donation or a dollar. Proceeds would be distributed to those in need.
As you can imagine, many forgot their food and or book donation so I was collecting a lot of dollar bills and making change. As is my habit, I did not really read all the directions for volunteers, and came to the event dressed warmly, but with mittens, which are not ideal for making change. So I abandoned the mittens.
My shift was the last shift of the last day, so we were short of volunteers at my station. That made me a little nervous, as I had a lot of dollar bills in my Home Depot apron. There was a woman standing by the entryway who looked a little “rough around the edges”. She was talking to me periodically, and it was evident she had had a few cocktails. Again, I felt a little nervous.
After a bit the woman approached me with a pair of fingerless gloves. She said, “please take these, they will keep your hands warm, and you can still make change.” I looked at her in surprise, and protested that she should keep her gloves. She opened her coat and said, “look, I have an extra pair of gloves, please use the fingerless gloves.” I thanked, her and donned the gloves. She was correct, the gloves really helped keep me warm.
But the woman did more for me than just keep my hands warm that day. She reminded me of so many lessons taught by Jesus. They were lessons, I temporarily forgot. Jesus taught us not to judge others. Jesus taught us to be generous. Jesus taught us that a gift from someone with limited means is a very special gift. There is nothing like receiving a random act of kindness to adjust one’s perspective.
Nancy Grose
Friday, April 01, 2011
April 01, 2011
What Would Faith Do????
Read Galatians 6:2-5, 9-10
We all know the answer, faith would move a mountain! We’ve all heard, it’s written in scripture, faith can move a mountain. Having climbed the highest one on the lower 48 in the dead of winter I have a unique perspective on this. In the last few years though, I’ve found myself overwhelmed at times, often wondering how I’m going to get it all done. In our case we don’t worry about where the next job is coming from, we’re more often worried about how to complete all the jobs we have in time to keep customers happy and also keep the job profitable. The Lovely and Gracious JeriLynn and I are now running 3 separate and distinctly different companies. It can be overwhelming at times.
After a chance meeting with a rather unassuming little woman though, I’ve gained strength when I need it. This unique and singular person has the power to literally move mountains, mountains of food. She’s in charge of feeding over 20,000 meals a week to those without. Appropriately, her name is Faith.
When I go to bed at night, if I’ve had some failing at work, I’ll likely get another chance to fix it tomorrow with only a few people uncomfortable for a while. If she fails by even 10%, then 2,000 people go without a meal. The boundless energy and faith in her organization is truly something to behold.
Now when I feel overwhelmed I ask myself, “What would Faith do?” The answer of course is, she would continue to move the mountain, one piece at a time. If you’d like to help her, log onto http://www.casscommunity.org.
Ron Draper
Read Galatians 6:2-5, 9-10
We all know the answer, faith would move a mountain! We’ve all heard, it’s written in scripture, faith can move a mountain. Having climbed the highest one on the lower 48 in the dead of winter I have a unique perspective on this. In the last few years though, I’ve found myself overwhelmed at times, often wondering how I’m going to get it all done. In our case we don’t worry about where the next job is coming from, we’re more often worried about how to complete all the jobs we have in time to keep customers happy and also keep the job profitable. The Lovely and Gracious JeriLynn and I are now running 3 separate and distinctly different companies. It can be overwhelming at times.
After a chance meeting with a rather unassuming little woman though, I’ve gained strength when I need it. This unique and singular person has the power to literally move mountains, mountains of food. She’s in charge of feeding over 20,000 meals a week to those without. Appropriately, her name is Faith.
When I go to bed at night, if I’ve had some failing at work, I’ll likely get another chance to fix it tomorrow with only a few people uncomfortable for a while. If she fails by even 10%, then 2,000 people go without a meal. The boundless energy and faith in her organization is truly something to behold.
Now when I feel overwhelmed I ask myself, “What would Faith do?” The answer of course is, she would continue to move the mountain, one piece at a time. If you’d like to help her, log onto http://www.casscommunity.org.
Ron Draper
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