March 31, 2013 - Easter Sunday

The Strife Is O'er the Battle Done

The strife is o'er, the battle done;

the victory of life is won;

the song of triumph has begun:

Alleluia!

The powers of death have done their worst,

but Christ their legions hath dispersed;

let shouts of holy joy outburst:

Alleluia!

The three sad days are quickly sped;

he rises glorious from the dead;

all glory to our risen Head!

Alleluia!

Lord, by the stripes which wounded thee,

from death's dread sting thy servants free,

that we may live, and sing to thee:

Alleluia!

Anonymous Latin, translated by Francis Pott

March 30, 2013

In Both Calm and Stormy Weather

Read: Philippians 4:10-20

We have moved 3 times in 4 years! Hard to wrap my head around it because I never would have guessed this was to be my path in life. Despite the stress that accompanies packing a bunch of boxes, loading, unloading, changing the mailing address on everything and searching for a new job, Garrett and I have found this to be true in every place we have lived: you will always find goodness and kindness. What a great discovery!

As it says in this passage from Philippians, anywhere you go, you'll always find what you need. We are so very blessed to have been given the opportunity to meet and get to know many wonderful people, because in our many transitions, that is what we have needed. Although change can be hard, what a great lesson to learn that "I can do everything through him who gives me strength." Our strength has come in the form of people reaching out and welcoming us into their community.

Change is never easy, but if you keep your eyes and heart open, you'll find the stability you need.

Prayer: Thank you God for always being with us and giving us what we need. Help us to continue to rely on you in both calm and stormy weather.

Prayer focus: change

Katie Broom

March 29, 2103 - Good Friday

A Tree, Planted by the Sanctuary

Read: Psalm 1

If one sits on the left side of the aisle during church service,

     one can see large tree branches beyond the beautiful stained glass window.

They might sway gently in a breeze,

     remain stationary on a still day,

          or blow gustily in a storm.

One can watch the changing of the seasons from Spring buds

     to full leaf to bare lace against a Winter sky.

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

The full circle of life's experience

     with the promise of continuity,

          as it leafs anew each Spring.

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

Sarah Frakes

March 28, 2013 - Maundy Thursday

That God Thing

Read: Numbers 6:23-27

Every once in a while, grandparents get the privilege of participating in the ritual at bedtime – putting kids to bed. And it is a ritual. It must be followed exactly, and in the prescribed order.

This ritual can include:

Medicine with a drink of juice, sometimes a snack, bath or shower accompanied by various and sundry creatures (fish, dinosaurs, turtles, boats, etc.), hair washing and drying (with not too hot a drier), correct pajamas and socks (in winter), tooth brushing, story time, climbing in bed with the correct amount and position of soft toys, prayers, back rub, overhead light off, night light on, closet light on (door closed), room door open just so far, hugs and kisses, “Good night, I love you.”

At the funeral of Dr. James Greer, his son, Rev. James Greer, mentioned that his father – as part of their nightly ritual – always said that lovely passage in Numbers 6:24-27. It was a blessing which God gave to Moses to give to Aaron, saying, “This is the way you shall bless the children of Israel.” (It is my favorite benediction, and I especially love to hear it sung.)

“The Lord bless you and keep you;

The Lord make His face to shine upon you;

And be gracious unto you;

The Lord lift up His countenance upon you,

And give you peace.”

I began to insert this into the night time ritual after prayers. Our six year old grandson always asks for it to be repeated.

If I should forget to say it; he says, “Say that God thing, Nana.” What a beautiful way to end a day.

Marianne Kiess

March 27, 2013

Exchanging pop cans for a lesson

Matthew25: 34-36

³⁴ Then the king will say to those at his right hand, ‘Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; ³⁵ for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, ³⁶ I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.

After finishing a sweaty Zumba workout at church, I headed to the Kroger on Kercheval to recycle a collection of soft drink cans. When I headed down the steps into the recycling center, a man was already settled in at one of the can deposit spots, humming softly to himself. I had seen him riding his bicycle up to the store as I drove into the parking lot.

"Wow, you have got a lot of cans there!" he exclaimed cheerily. "I got a lot of cans myself, picked 'em up along Kercheval down there by Lakewood and Newport. Can't believe how people just throw these cans down on the sidewalk. That's like throwin' away money!"

"I know what you mean," I said, weary from a day of work and an hour of exercise as I methodically put my cans into the chute.

"Well, I'm out of work, and a man's got to do something to get a little extra cash, you know. This is better than some stuff, you know what I mean?"

He paused briefly. "Where'd you pick all of your cans?"

At first, his question confused me. Then I realized he thought I was in the same business he was. "Oh, I got all of mine from home," I said quickly.

He looked at me quizzically then asked if I knew what day it was.

"Sure. It's Wednesday," I said.

"Ah, then that means tomorrow is Thursday. That's the day you can get a free meal over there at that school by St. Phil's. You know that school by Marseilles and Mack. Real good food. Ever been there? They don't ask you any questions. They just seem happy to give you a good meal. You should try it," he said, still as chipper as when I'd arrived.

What? I should try the free meal? What was he talking about? Did he think I was a vagrant who'd picked up these cans off the street? That I needed the handout of a free meal? Did I really look that bad after Zumba?

I'm sure he must have seen the confusion on my face but the look on his face was sheer generosity. He was doing the best he could for himself. He didn't have much but he was still offering to help me because he thought I needed it.

My prayer is that I am always so generous to those in need, that I never look past someone who is sad or hungry or lonely, that I always take the time to look closely and respond to their needs.

Joan Richardson

March 26, 2013

Brushstrokes

Read: Psalm 19

An artist named Helen Frankenthaler was quoted saying, "A picture that is beautiful or that works looks as if it was all made at one stroke. I don't like to see the trail of a brushstroke or a drip of paint."

I disagree. Brushstrokes are a big part of the beauty to me. They tell so much about the process, the journey. I went to the DIA looking for some inspiration and some help with a project. By studying a Matisse painting and looking specifically for the brushstrokes, I got a personal lesson from Matisse himself. In fact from that point on I discovered brushstrokes (and yes even drips) in many paintings ‑ each one a lesson in technique and paint thickness.

A pure blue sky can be beautiful in its simplicity, but I like to see God's brushstrokes dragging the clouds from one place to another. God's amazing sky paintings can come naturally from the clouds, but even a jet plane striping the pale blue canvas is a reminder of the beauty and wonder of all of God's gifts. How much more beautiful is a sunset when there are bold strokes of clouds across the sky.

On our own faces we can see the brushstrokes of our lives. When I look in the mirror and see lines around my eyes, I try to remember all the good reasons I smiled so much to make them ‑ or even the beautiful sunny days that made me squint (and yes gave me the sunburns to add to the wrinkles). Instead of seeing imperfection and aging, I need to embrace the brushstrokes and be grateful for all the things that made them.

Personally I like brushstrokes in a painting. They let us into the artist's mind and they show us the creative process. I like the brushstrokes in nature too. They show us God's creative process. I'm trying to like the brushstrokes I see in my mirror. They are evidence of God's gifts to me and God's work through me.

Dear God, Thank you for the beauty you have given us. Thank you for the evidence that you are at work in our lives. Thank you for all the brushstrokes. Amen.

Jacki Rumpp

Look for God's brushstrokes in your life.

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