Sunday, April 12, 2020 – Easter Sunday

Christ the Lord Is Risen Today – UMH 302
(audio version)
Christ the Lord is risen today, Alleluia!
Earth and heaven in chorus say, Alleluia!
Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!
Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply, Alleluia!


Love's redeeming work is done, Alleluia!
Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia!
Death in vain forbids him rise, Alleluia!
Christ has opened paradise, Alleluia!


Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!
Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia!
Once he died our souls to save, Alleluia!
Where's thy victory, boasting grave? Alleluia!


Soar we now where Christ has led, Alleluia!
Following our exalted Head, Alleluia!
Made like him, like him we rise, Alleluia!
Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!


Hail the Lord of earth and heaven, Alleluia!
Praise to thee by both be given, Alleluia!
Thee we greet triumphant now, Alleluia!
Hail the Resurrection, thou, Alleluia!


King of glory, soul of bliss, Alleluia!
Everlasting life is this, Alleluia!
Thee to know, thy power to prove, Alleluia!
Thus to sing, and thus to love, Alleluia!


Charles Wesley

Saturday, April 11, 2020

Psalm 110 English Standard Version (ESV)
(audio version)
Sit at My Right Hand
A Psalm of David.

The Lord says to my Lord:
    “Sit at my right hand,
until I make your enemies your footstool.”

The Lord sends forth from Zion
    your mighty scepter.
    Rule in the midst of your enemies!
Your people will offer themselves freely
    on the day of your power,
    in holy garments;
from the womb of the morning,
    the dew of your youth will be yours.
The Lord has sworn
    and will not change his mind,
“You are a priest forever
    after the order of Melchizedek.”

The Lord is at your right hand;
    he will shatter kings on the day of his wrath.
He will execute judgment among the nations,
    filling them with corpses;
he will shatter chiefs
    over the wide earth.
He will drink from the brook by the way;
    therefore he will lift up his head.

Friday, April 10, 2020 – Good Friday

In the Garden, in the World
(audio version)
Read: John 20:1-18

Walking slowly in the dawning
    burdened with grief
    burdened with oil and spices
    burdened with a task – an act of Love

To the tomb they come wondering
    how could He be dead?
    how can we bear it?
    how can we roll away that stone?

Shocked to stillness, to standing
    the guards are gone
    the tomb is opened
    the angel tells them that He is risen

Running to the disciples, then with two returning
    the men look in
    see He is not there
    return pondering, confused

Left behind in the Garden, wondering
    where can I find Him?
    where have they taken Him?
    where have you taken Him?

Asking the Gardener, weeping
    hears Him call her name
    sees Him welcome her
    worships Him, falling at His feet

Listening to His Word, worshiping
    “don’t fear, trust Me
    “don’t hold Me, proclaim Me,
    “tell them to come to Me.”

I see the scene unfold, marveling
    The Tomb is empty!
    The Tomb is empty!
    The Tomb is empty! Hallelujah!

Mary met Him in the Garden
    where will I meet Him? Here?
Mary worshiped Him as soon as she knew Him
    when will I worship Him? Now?
Mary knew Him as her Lord, her all
    what is He to me? Savior?
Mary ran to tell her friends to meet Him
    whom will I tell? Anyone? Everyone?
Mary spent her life serving Him who saved her
    why don’t I? how can I not?


Charlie van Becelaere

Thursday, April 9, 2020 – Maundy Thursday

Exquisite Fragrance
(audio version)
In the Messiah, in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory parade. Through us, he brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite fragrance. Because of Christ, we give off a sweet scent rising to God, which is recognized by those on the way of salvation—an aroma redolent with life. But those on the way to destruction treat us more like the stench from a rotting corpse. – 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 (The Message Translation)


My mom made homemade bread every Friday. When I close my eyes, I can still smell that scrumptious hot bread as I walked into the kitchen after school on Fridays. The smell of hot bread reminds me of the love and laughter we shared around the table; hot bread, butter and the events of the day were a sweet scent rising to God.

Smell is a powerful sense. I imagine you too have smells that stir up pleasant memories. Perhaps, if you close your eyes, you will smell a new box of crayons, a certain perfume, a favorite dish, pipe tobacco, a certain place, wood shavings, or some other memory filled with an exquisite fragrance.

In Corinthians, Paul says we give off a sweet scent. We, who follow Jesus, are known by the scent of love that wafts from us as we share the love of Christ through our words and actions.

Lent is a time of self-examination and I think it is a good time to ask, how am I doing? Am I leaving the sweet scent of Christ’s love everywhere I go? If not, do I need to spend a little more time with Jesus and let the fragrance of His love infuse me so I can be an exquisite fragrance and a sweet smell to all I meet?

Prayer: Dear Jesus, may my words and actions leave the lingering exquisite fragrance of Your love with everyone I meet. AMEN.


Pam Wells (College Grove UMC)

Wednesday, April 8, 2020

Brilliance
(audio version)
Read: 1 Samuel 16:7

Ever notice how some flashes of brilliance seem to be "brilliant" only to you? Back a few years ago in a Lenten Devotion I described my mother's penchant for seeing the negative. I summarized that attitude as "every silver lining has a dark cloud!" That to me was surely something that would bring many comments. Strangely, at least to me, I heard not one. So much for brilliant remarks.

The lack of response in no way made me less willing to offer more Lenten Devotions. Because we don't hear a response to a "devotional" doesn't mean it hasn't helped someone(s). I take great joy in reading and taking to heart many of the devotionals our church family has shared even though I don't respond.

Jack van Becelaere

Tuesday, April 7, 2020

We Worship in this Beautiful Place
(audio version)
Read: 1 Corinthians 13:11-13

Okay, it's two days before the deadline and I haven't managed to write a Lenten devotion.  I'm at retreat with no readily available reference books, a sometimes sketchy internet connection, lots of people who are busy relaxing, and I've got no idea what to say.

As circumstances would have it, we have no ordained clergy with us this year so we have to design a meaningful worship service for tomorrow morning. I'm not naming names but I was sort of absorbed into a group of about six people who were working on the service.

"Faith, hope, and charity" is the theme. We've got a song:"The Bible Tells Me So."  That part is done.  Now we need a couple of hymns and a couple of scripture references. None of us is a scholar of biblical proportions (or scripture).  Sketchy Internet. How do we get this done?

As I write this, seven hours later, I don't remember exactly what we came up with.  I'll find out tomorrow morning.  What I do remember is that ideas started flowing, all tied to faith, hope, and charity.

Do I think that God, at that moment, directed our thoughts? Not necessarily, but I do think that our own faith journeys, the hope to do something meaningful, and our relationships with God led us in the right direction.

How'd the service go?  Was it meaningful?  You'll have to ask somebody who was there because it hasn't happened yet. 

Did we feel God's presence as we discussed possibilities?  That one I can answer: Yes.  God was with us in this beautiful place.

Fred Van de Putte

Monday, April 6, 2020

Continuing to Grow
(audio version)
Psalm 56:3-4 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
3 when I am afraid,
    I put my trust in you.
4 In God, whose word I praise,
    in God I trust; I am not afraid;
    what can flesh do to me?


When I was in MYF about a hundred years ago, one of the activities at a church overnight was to create a banner with our personal motto or mission statement. Our youth minister was especially good at encouraging conversation without preaching to us. His message to us throughout the year was really pretty simple and clear: You’re about to leave for college and start to design your own life. What is going to guide your life? What will be your lodestar?

On this night, he had all sorts of books, Bibles, hymns, and popular music for us to explore and piles of fabric, paints, glues, and poster boards. We spent hours reading and talking about what we were finding. We were soooooo deep and philosophical! After a couple of hours of this, the young minister shooed us off to think and work by ourselves and create our personal banners.

I settled on Robert Browning’s quote: A man’s reach should exceed his grasp (edited, of course, to become “a woman’s reach should exceed her grasp” because I was, after all, a budding feminist!).

My banner was on rough burlap with colorful triangles of orange and red felt and a long, jagged yellow lightning strike. I’m sure there was some meaning in there, although I no longer remember what that might have been. But the words have stuck with me and, in fact, have been a steady reminder over the years of how I want to approach every day.

I live a pretty comfortable life. I’ve stretched a lot in my lifetime, but I can’t say that I’ve stretched as far as I should have. I’m sure that the girl who first landed on those words had bigger dreams than I have fulfilled. In fact, I know she did.

Falling back into the comfortable is awfully easy to do. Reaching out to do something that’s uncertain and unfamiliar is hard and scary. Even at my age, I want to grow and that means that I must be willing to continue to reach out because growth only happens when we reach beyond our comfort zones.

Prayer: Help me not to fear the unknown but to step ahead knowing that you will comfort and support me in all ways. When I stumble, you will reach out to lift me; when I fall, you will pick me up. In all things, you will be my strength and shield.

Joan Richardson

Sunday, April 5, 2020 – Palm Sunday

Tell Me the Stories of Jesus – UMH 277
(audio version)
Tell me the stories of Jesus I love to hear;
things I would ask him to tell me if he were here:
scenes by the wayside, tales of the sea,
stories of Jesus, tell them to me.


First let me hear how the children stood round his knee,
and I shall fancy his blessing resting on me;
words full of kindness, deeds full of grace,
all in the lovelight of Jesus' face.


Into the city I'd follow the children's band,
waving a branch of the palm tree high in my hand;
one of his heralds, yes, I would sing
loudest hosannas, "Jesus is King!"


William H. Parker

Saturday, April 4, 2020

Psalm 45:1-9, 15-17 English Standard Version (ESV)
(audio version)
Your Throne, O God, Is Forever
To the choirmaster: according to Lilies. A Maskil of the Sons of Korah; a love song.

My heart overflows with a pleasing theme;
    I address my verses to the king;
    my tongue is like the pen of a ready scribe.

You are the most handsome of the sons of men;
    grace is poured upon your lips;
    therefore God has blessed you forever.
Gird your sword on your thigh, O mighty one,
    in your splendor and majesty!

In your majesty ride out victoriously
    for the cause of truth and meekness and righteousness;
    let your right hand teach you awesome deeds!
Your arrows are sharp
    in the heart of the king's enemies;
    the peoples fall under you.

Your throne, O God, is forever and ever.
    The scepter of your kingdom is a scepter of uprightness;
    you have loved righteousness and hated wickedness.
Therefore God, your God, has anointed you
    with the oil of gladness beyond your companions;
    your robes are all fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia.
From ivory palaces stringed instruments make you glad;
    daughters of kings are among your ladies of honor;
    at your right hand stands the queen in gold of Ophir.

In place of your fathers shall be your sons;
    you will make them princes in all the earth.
I will cause your name to be remembered in all generations;
    therefore nations will praise you forever and ever.

Friday, April 3, 2020

He is Lord

Read: Deuteronomy 6:4-9, Romans 10:9-10, Philippians 2:8-11, Revelation 19:16

On the Baptism of the Lord Sunday this year (2020) Heidi was singing Hymn 177 “He is Lord” which goes “He is Lord, he is Lord! He is risen from the dead and he is Lord! Every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.” Such a simple and profound hymn. A hymn which states our belief as Christians “Jesus is Lord!” “Lord of Earth and of Heaven.” We state as a matter of fact “Jesus is Lord!” In the Apostles’ Creed we say “I believe … in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord” and in the Nicene Creed “We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ.” Jesus is Lord! Simple, yet profound! Lord and God we find in the Shema of ancient Israel (Deuteronomy 6:4-9). Early Christians read the Shema and saw Jesus and the Father as one in substance and yet each with their own distinctiveness. In 1 Corinthians 8:6-7 we read, “yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.” Christians always and everywhere have believed “Jesus is Lord!”

When we put our trust in Jesus’ Lordship in our lives we confess with our lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in our heart that God raised him from the dead, we will be saved. For one believes with the heart and so is justified, and one confesses with the mouth and so is saved (Romans 10:9-10). When I heard Heidi singing He is Lord my spirit was saying “yes! Jesus you are Lord! You are my Lord! Help me to follow you” because I want steadfast and faithful love for God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit with all that I am, all of my heart, soul, strength, and mind. This confession is the foundation of our faith. It is believed Philippians 2:6-11 is one of the first hymns of Christianity. This confession becomes profound when in Philippians 2:11 we see “Jesus Christ is Lord.” Saying this confession in a colony of Roman allegiance would have been a political statement. If Jesus is Lord, then Caesar cannot be lord. We cannot worship both Jesus and Caesar, who will our commitment as Christians bow our knee to? Will we allow Jesus as Lord to be the root and foundation of our belief?

It is my prayer this Lenten time of a called fast, that in this time we might draw closer to the Holy Trinity. May we know Jesus so well as to say “my Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). May it not stop with just a confession, but with a change in our spirit with how we live and have deeper intimacy with this God whom we also call our Lord. I plan on growing this Lenten season to know more about this God whom we all will one day confess is Lord. I hope you will too.

Prayer: My Lord and my God, I pray to know you better as both Lord and God. Help me to follow you as Lord even when I would rather follow the world and Caesar. During this time of fasting, help me to hold to my commitment to your Lordship. May your Holy Spirit empower me to live a changed and holy life. Amen.

Rev. Keith Lenard, Jr.

Thursday, April 2, 2020

Living in the Present

Read: Matthew 6:25-34

Sometimes I wish I was more like my dog, Jax. The main reason being that Jax lives in the present. He doesn't let circumstances from the past bother him. Jax doesn't hold a grudge – if he gets scolded for something (sometimes not even his fault), shortly after he's back at my side for a much enjoyed walk or just a loving touch.

How wonderful it would be if we all could practice such forgiveness. The past should not define our current life – it's not productive to play “what if” all the time. He also doesn't worry about the future. He's content to nap in the sunbeam on the living room floor or guard “his sidewalk” from those who dare to walk down it. A dear friend once called me the “Queen of Anticipation.” She was absolutely right – I have wasted a lot of time imagining worst case scenarios when faced with even a small crisis. Most of the time, a simple solution will present itself.

Jesus reminds us in this passage that ultimately we are in God's hands and need to place our trust in Him, which will ultimately make our lives much more fulfilling. So I'm going to work on trying to be more like Jax. Who couldn't use a nice nap in a sunbeam?

Prayer focus: all who worry too much

Sue DeWitt

Wednesday, April 1, 2020

God Is in Control
(audio version)
Read: Isaiah 55:8-11

We need to hear that God is still in control.
We need to hear that it’s not over until He says so.
We need to hear that life’s mishaps and tragedies are not a reason to bail out; they are simply a reason to sit tight.

Father, when we hurt, you hurt with us.
When no one listens to us, you listen.
You wipe away our tears of frustration with your strong hand, and nothing that happens to us surprises you.

Prayer: Remind us, Father, that the most important thing we can do on this Earth is to reach out and help those who have not yet found the key to that life that is to come – eternal life with you.

Glenn DeLodder

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Image is Everything
(audio version)
Read: 1 Corinthians 15:41-49

As the leaves begin to emerge, I think that God doesn't have to direct each tree about putting out leaves, or to look like previous elms, maples, oaks, etc. They all become the image of previous elms, maples, oaks, etc.

The same is true for birds. Cardinals grow to the image of cardinals, orioles the image of orioles and so forth. Not so with dogs! A single litter of labs can have yellow, chocolate, and black pups. It seems people have variety as well.

People are made in the image of God so what is God's image? Shaq is a little over seven feet tall and my wife Shirley was a little over five feet tall, and people come in a variety of colors in addition to overall shape.

I like to say "Image is everything." Maybe we can all be in God's image because God is everything!

Jack van Becelaere

Angels and Saints

Read: Hebrews 13:1, 16, 20-21

Did you ever notice in a mirror – Left is Right and Right is Left – but Up is always Up and Down is always Down? It's a bit like – Heaven is always up, Hell is always down, and in between is here on Earth, where things are often mixed up. We have free will and we also know "Thy will be done." One of the things that has us mixed up is that there is evil in the world and, it follows, evildoers. There also are "saints" and "angels" which come in many forms and, of course, without wings.

Being "wingless" means we tell who are the "good guys" by actions and words. I am thankful I live among angels and saints. While I haven't met them all, I have had contact with some.

Jack van Becelaere

Monday, March 30, 2020

The Angels Among Us
(audio version)
Romans 10: 9: “…because if you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

2010 began with such hope and promise for me and my husband Kelly. Kelly, who had suffered for years from Type 1 diabetes, had undergone a successful kidney transplant and was off dialysis, and after being confined to bed for nearly two years with a horribly broken foot made worse by an unsuccessful surgery, was up and walking again with a brace. He had avoided the ordeal of amputation, and the doctors were astonished by his “miracle foot,” a term they used when describing the healing. Needless to say, we were thrilled, and both privately and publicly attributed Kelly’s progress to God’s mercies. The day-to-day burdens of working a high stress job requiring many hours, caring for the home, and caring for my chronically ill husband were being lifted, and I also began to recover from the deep fatigue that seemed to surround me like a fog. Kelly and I truly believed we had turned a significant corner, and joyfully celebrated our 14th wedding anniversary. We began to nurse the hope of a normal lifespan for Kelly, and with it, a more normal life for us as a married couple. Kelly, with his typical generosity, insisted that we mark the occasion with the purchase of a beautiful antique diamond watch that he knew I admired as an anniversary present for me. The back of the watch read: “Carlo, Christmas 1936.” I often wondered about Carlo, whether he was still alive, whether the recipient of his gift was still alive. I prayed for them and hoped that no dire financial need was the cause of this watch being part of an estate sale, and, ultimately, my good fortune.

We decided to continue our celebration of Kelly’s healing by taking a vacation over the Christmas holidays in Florida. It was our first vacation in five years, and I was so happy to see Kelly enjoying himself at last: bubbling over with praise for a beautiful sunrise we saw from the plane, practicing walking on the handicap ramp to the beach, taking in the gorgeous ocean views, sounds, and smells. We enjoyed a delicious Christmas dinner and unwrapping gifts with my Mother and a friend from my old social work days who had moved to the area. Over the next few days, the weather was beautiful, and we had so many plans for additional fun that we decided to extend our vacation. I phoned my boss and was given permission to do so.

On that same night, Kelly and I were watching TV while lying in bed, and suddenly he sat straight up and said he felt “funny.” Within seconds he had a fixed stare and couldn’t speak. He was rushed to the local hospital where the doctors told me he had suffered a massive hemorrhagic stroke and serious brain damage. I was told that the loving, brilliant Kelly I knew was gone and that on the very slim chance he would regain consciousness, he would be extremely disabled with minimal brain function; he was in a vegetative state.

Over the next few days, the hospital staff began to discuss with me the option of removing life support as there were no signs of any meaningful brain activity. Time seemed to telescope. I was horrified and confused, but with the help of family and a wonderful local Methodist minister, made the decision to let him go. I know that is what he would have wanted.

Completely devastated, I reached out to several dear friends and family members for comfort. My wonderful friend from my MSU college days, Steve, gave me the best advice. Knowing how much I love nature, he suggested I get up the next morning and hike my (and Kelly’s) favorite beach at sunrise. Little did I know what awaited me there.

While walking the next morning up the beach towards Bathtub Reef, I cried and prayed to God that He send me a sign that Kelly was with Him and all right. The sun pierced cloud groupings in bright shafts, and fishermen were intermittently scattered on the beach. Suddenly, one of the fishermen near me caught a beautiful pompano and I approached him to admire his catch (I love the sport of fishing). He willingly showed me his fish and then startled me by removing his baseball cap to show me a long, jagged scar and announce, “And I give glory to Jesus that I am here fishing!” He proceeded to tell me about a terrible accident that he had been in and how the Lord, against all medical odds, had healed him. It dawned on me that maybe I was supposed to be meeting this man today, and I told him so. I also told him what had just happened with Kelly. Looking me straight in the eye, he surprised me by whipping a Bible out of the rear pocket in his jeans and having me read aloud Romans 10:9 (see above) and affirm, as my belief, that Christ is Lord and that He arose. Still looking straight at me, he said: “You will see your husband again.” I decided I had interrupted his fishing long enough but thought to ask his name before I left. He replied, “Carlos.” I didn’t see the man on my return hike down the beach and never saw him again over the years on recurrent hikes on that same beach.

Who was this man? Upon recounting this story to various Christian friends, it was suggested that he was an angel, sent as an answer to my prayer for assurance that Kelly was with God, and that I would see him again. As further proof that this was so, the man’s name was Carlos, one letter off from the name on my treasured watch commemorating my last anniversary as Kelly’s wife. That’s close enough for me. Whether or not Carlos was really an angelic being, he certainly was an angel that day reminding me of God’s ultimate plan for us and his goodness.

Prayer focus: Those who have lost a spouse recently.

Joyce Reynolds

Sunday, March 29, 2020

The Strife is O'er, the Battle Done – UMH 306
(audio version)
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, trans. by Francis Pott

Saturday, March 28, 2020

Psalm 41 English Standard Version (ESV)
O Lord, Be Gracious to Me
(audio version)
To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David.

Blessed is the one who considers the poor!
    In the day of trouble the Lord delivers him;
the Lord protects him and keeps him alive;
    he is called blessed in the land;
    you do not give him up to the will of his enemies.
The Lord sustains him on his sickbed;
    in his illness you restore him to full health.

As for me, I said, “O Lord, be gracious to me;
    heal me, for I have sinned against you!”
My enemies say of me in malice,
    “When will he die, and his name perish?”
And when one comes to see me, he utters empty words,
    while his heart gathers iniquity;
    when he goes out, he tells it abroad.
All who hate me whisper together about me;
    they imagine the worst for me.

They say, “A deadly thing is poured out on him;
    he will not rise again from where he lies.”
Even my close friend in whom I trusted,
    who ate my bread, has lifted his heel against me.
But you, O Lord, be gracious to me,
    and raise me up, that I may repay them!

By this I know that you delight in me:
    my enemy will not shout in triumph over me.
But you have upheld me because of my integrity,
    and set me in your presence forever.

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,
    from everlasting to everlasting!
Amen and Amen.

Friday, March 27, 2020

“How was your day?”
(audio version)
Matthew 6:25 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?

Tall, lean, and clean-shaven, Richard was always one of the first Shelter Week guests to arrive for breakfast in Fellowship Hall.

On the first morning of Shelter Week, I approached him as he poured himself a cup of coffee. “I heard some of the ladies were a bit chilly last night. Were you warm enough? Did you sleep OK?” I asked him.

“I slept like a baby,” he said, drawing out his words slowly.

“Now, would that be a baby who woke up and cried all night long or a baby who slept through the night?” I asked him.

He paused just long enough to take my measure. “Oh, that’s a good one,” he laughed back at me. “I slept like a quiet, happy baby.”

Every morning after that, we had the same routine. “How did you sleep last night?” I would ask. “Like a happy baby,” he would say, a big smile lighting his face.

Most days, I also saw him at dinner, and we’d chat about the weather, about the food, about how he’d spent his day. He told me he’d made a lot of mistakes in his life, but that he was right with the Lord now, and things were looking up. His 90 days with the rotating shelter would expire on the day he left our church, and he didn’t yet know where he’d be sleeping after that. But he was optimistic that things would turn out OK for him.

On Thursday night, as I was tidying up the activity area in Fellowship Hall, he spotted me and walked over to say hello. “I was just wondering,” he said. “How was your day today? It looks like you’re doing a lot of work here. You’re here in the morning; you’re here at night. You must be getting pretty tired by now.”

Here was a man with no steady income, no home, no idea where he’d be sleeping in the next week, asking politely about my day and wondering if I was tired. I am rarely without words, but I could only stammer out a reply to Richard.

There were lessons aplenty in Shelter Week, but the greatest was surely about the grace, dignity, humor, and kindness of so many of the guests we served. What lingers after Shelter Week is admiration for the resilience of the human spirit. How do men and women who have seemingly lost everything continue to rise up every  morning and go forward? How do they manage to believe that God loves them when they struggle so much in this life? How does someone who has so little manage to care at all about me and whether I’m the one who’s tired and has had a good day? I can only hope that I have half the strength and belief of Richard and the others guests I served during Shelter Week.

Prayer: Lord, help me to stop worrying about what tomorrow will bring and to trust that you will care for me in all ways. Help me to trust that your plan for me is enough.

Joan Richardson

Thursday, March 26, 2020

God Be in My Head
(audio version)

“God be in my head, and in my understanding;
God be in mine eyes, and in my looking;
God be in my mouth, and in my speaking;
God be in my heart, and in my thinking;
God be at mine end, and at my departing.”

This most remarkable text is taken from the “Book of Hours,” a Christian devotional book popular in the Middle Ages. These words can have profound significance for anyone committed to living a spirit-centered life. In John 4 we read: “God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” That God is spirit is not always easy for human understanding, living as we do in a physical world defined by limitations of space and time. God as spirit also stands in contrast to the sometimes anthropomorphic image of God, with consequent attribution of human qualities such as jealousy, taking offense, anger, a punishing intent. In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians we find this deeply expressive prayer: “For this reason, then, I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in Heaven and on Earth is named, and pray in proportion to the wealth of his glory, he will strengthen you with his power by breathing his Spirit into your most inner self, so that Christ, through your faith, may make his home within your hearts in Love.” And in Acts 17 we read: “The Lord of Heaven and Earth does not live in shrines made by hands …. Indeed, he is not far from each one of us, for in him we live and move and exist.” Creator and created are forever joined, and appreciating this is a great gift.

GOD BE IN MY HEAD, AND IN MY UNDERSTANDING

This sentence is a prayer that invites God to take central place in our minds, and bring about spiritual discernment which corrects our misperceptions. As we come to a true understanding of our relationship with our Creator, our relationships with each other will change as well. God is never absent from his creations – an encouraging and comforting thought indeed!

GOD BE IN MINE EYES, AND IN MY LOOKING

If this be our prayer, it follows that we cannot see apart from God. His vision is one of perfect holiness and oneness. But humanity has chosen to see apart from God, giving rise to a world of separation and seemingly unending competing interests and, therefore, conflict. Spiritual vision (or “the eyes of Christ”) will reveal God’s purpose in all things we look upon. Without it, we will not know the true purpose of anything. Vision shows us the holiness that lights up the world, so let us look with open minds, love, and appreciation.

GOD BE IN MY MOUTH, AND IN MY SPEAKING

If this be our prayer also, our speaking will be informed by the same vision that we apply to our seeing. Here are a few applicable quotations from the Bible: “If I speak in the tongues of people, or even of angels, yet have not love, I have become mere echoing brass, or a clanging cymbal.” (1 Corinthians 13:1) “Let us speak the truth in love; so shall we fully grow up in Christ.” (Ephesians 4:15) “Never let any foul word pass your lips, but only such good words as the occasion demands, so that they may be a help to those who hear them.” (Ephesians 4:29)

GOD BE IN MY HEART, AND IN MY THINKING

Here are a few more Bible quotations to consider: “Create a clean heart in me, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10) “May the Lord direct your hearts towards God’s love and the patience of Christ.” (2 Thessalonians 3:5) “Let the peace of Christ settle in your hearts, to which you were called in one body, and be thankful. Let the word of Christ abide in you richly. Teach and counsel each other with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, with grace singing in your hearts to God.” (Colossians 3:15-16)

GOD BE AT MINE END, AND AT MY DEPARTING

“Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end.” (Psalm 119:33) “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord my whole life long.” (Psalm 23:6) “It is God himself who called you to share in the life of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord; and God keeps faith.” (1 Corinthians 1:9) “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s home are many dwellings. If it had not been so, I would have told you, for I am going to prepare a place for you … I will return and take you to be with me, so that you may be where I am.” (John 14:1-3)

So who or what will guide our thinking and understanding and all that we do and say? Jesus has given us the answer: “I will pray the Father, and he will give you another Counselor, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth … you know him, for he dwells with you, and will be in you … he will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” (John 14)

Peace and blessings,
Doug Dykstra

Prayer: “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14)

Wednesday, March 25, 2020

Radical Hospitality
(audio version)
Read: Genesis 1:27, Ephesians 2:18-22

Eight in the evening to One in the morning. One in the morning on to Seven. Either way, that's a long time to just sit around, making sure nothing is going wrong, nothing bad is happening, that if anyone needs a blanket or something, we can get it. How will we pass the time in the middle of the night? It's dark. It's quiet. It's going to be either boring or hard.

Nope. My security shifts for Shelter Week were nothing of the kind; they were very different, and they were very rewarding.

At one session I was convinced to play Euchre (no doubt the official card game of the United Methodist Church) with my security teammates. (This was despite my not having played in at least a few decades.)

The game turned into outreach as one of our guests saw us playing and came to join us. Entertainment – pastime – turned into outreach, into nurture, into fellowship.
There was nothing hard or boring about that night – it was comforting and comfortable.

Prayer: Father, we know we were created in Your image. Help us always to see that image in others; to see Jesus in those we meet, whether the greatest or least of our brothers and sisters. Amen.

Charlie van Becelaere

Tuesday, March 24, 2020

Out of the Mouths of Babes – Part II
(audio version)
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

As some of you know, my two Cleveland grandsons took their first communion in the Catholic church last Easter. Friends have asked me how I felt about these baptized Protestants becoming Catholic, and my response has always been that I am not their parents, just their grandparent.

Well, this last Christmas we were traveling overseas together and we went into an old, Catholic church. At the back of the church were candles which could be purchased in memory of a loved one and my 9-year-old now-Catholic grandson asked his dad to buy a candle so that the three of them, dad, brother, and grandson, could pray for Boppa (Larry -grandfather and father-in-law). And so the dad bought a candle and the three of them bowed their heads and Charlie proceeded to pray that he hoped Boppa was fine where he was. Then they crossed themselves and went on their way.

When my son-in-law told me this story, I was so grateful to those catechism teachers for encouraging my grandsons to be comfortable talking to God. Garrison Keillor always said that the average Protestant would rather die than to have to pray out loud in public. I think that’s a bit of an exaggeration, but in the case of Charlie, he felt right at home talking to God about someone he loved and missed.

Vivian Anderson

Monday, March 23, 2020

Musicionary
(audio version)
Read: Psalm 96:1-4

The word has obvious meaning – and is attributed all the way back to Martin Luther. I was honored to be part of church music three times. Each time I was listed as Jack van Becelaere. In truth it should have been "The Jack van Becelaere Trio." While I was the only one seen, God and Shirley were on my shoulders. No way I could have done that by myself.

The lesson to be learned from that is God can help out no matter the task. During the days of practice I did much better when I said a prayer before starting. God must know I am fighting a lack of natural ability, and knows I need Him. I know He is busy with many large concerns, but He seems to find time for something as mundane as my playing the guitar.

Thank you God.

Jack van Becelaere

Sunday, March 22, 2020

Thine Be the Glory – UMH 308
(audio version)
Thine be the glory, risen, conqu'ring Son:
endless is the vict'ry thou o’er death hast won;
angels in bright raiment rolled the stone away,
kept the folded grave-clothes where thy body lay.


Lo! Jesus meets us, risen from the tomb;
lovingly he greets us, scatters fear and gloom;
let the church with gladness, hymns of triumph sing,
for her Lord now liveth, death hath lost its sting. [Refrain]


No more we doubt thee, glorious Prince of life;
life is naught without thee: aid us in our strife;
make us more than conqu'rors, thro' thy deathless love:
bring us safe thro' Jordan to thy home above. [Refrain]


Edmund L. Budry; trans. by R. Birch Hoyle

Saturday, March 21, 2020

Psalm 23 English Standard Version (ESV)
(audio version)
The Lord Is My Shepherd
A Psalm of David.

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
    He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
    He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
    for his name's sake.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
    I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
    your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever.

Friday, March 20, 2020

Murphy
(audio version)
Read: Matthew 25:34-45

Standing on the corner waiting for a group to arrive at a restaurant in Atlanta, I was approached by a homeless man looking for some money. I often make sure I have a five-dollar bill just in case, but I also am very particular about who gets that bill.  He asked for money and I chose my standard response of “Sorry, I don’t carry cash.”  Instead of moving on, he said he really needed to go buy some new colostomy bags. Then he showed me the hole in his side! Well you can’t make that up. I dug around and found that five folded up and laying at the bottom of my purse. He was very grateful and commented that you just never know what you have unless you look. He thanked me and started walking away. I caught up to him and asked him what his name was. Murphy. I then asked if I could pray for him and he said there’s nothing more important than prayer.

And so I began to walk back towards the restaurant where I was supposed to be waiting for the group, intending to pull out my phone where I keep a prayer list. As I walked I realized Murphy was following me. Uh oh, had I made a mistake, or was he just headed back the way he had originally come? I stopped and he stopped. Definitely following me. As I looked at him he bowed his head. And then it finally got through my thick head. He wanted me to pray for him right there. And so I put my hand on his shoulder and said a prayer. I spent several hours afterward thinking of much better prayers until I finally let myself off the hook. I had prayed for him, no matter how feebly. Plus I felt like I had learned not to put off praying for someone until it was convenient for me.

A few days later when I lifted Murphy’s name again, it dawned on me that I had just met Jesus, complete with a hole in his side!


Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank you for showing up in unexpected places. Help me to look for you in different places and different faces. Amen

Jacki Rumpp (College Grove UMC)

Thursday, March 19, 2020

Having a Spring-time Faith
(audio version)

Read: Leviticus 26:11-13

Some time ago, while I was still in high school, our teacher led the class in a discussion about “which is your favorite month of the year?” For many in the class, their favorite month was the month of March. The reasons given – the end of the Winter cold, Spring flowers, warmer weather are the ones that I recall. I cannot say as I heard anyone proclaiming that March also brought melting snow, cold rains, or mud. It seems that we were more willing to focus upon the benefits of March (and the promise of Springtime that comes with it) and ignore, or at least endure, the products of change that March brings.

For others in the class, October was their favorite month. The reasons? Autumn days, apple cider, Fall football, the smell and colors of Autumn were loudly proclaimed. Others would counter that although Fall was beautiful with its Fall colors and all, it also ushered in a long, cold Winter. The advice from the “October Camp?” “Forget about the Winter that was coming and enjoy the day!”

Today, we as a church (and maybe as a city and a nation) need to “wrestle” with this same type of dilemma. The dilemma? Are we to revel and enjoy the present and not concern ourselves with what may lie ahead (like our “October Camp” from my high school discussion), or do we confront that which lies ahead, agree to endure that which is required to change, and seek the promise of a “Springtime” blessing from God?

As you read this, we are journeying through the Lenten Season – a time of personal reflection. Lent is a time to review our current reality, make adjustments and changes with expectations of a deeper, more meaningful relationship with God. The season of Lent is much like the month of March – a season of change and the expectation for brighter tomorrows.

But today we begin journeying through another season – Spring! The promise of Spring will soon be fulfilled! And what does this have to do with the challenges that we face? Just as we must endure the melting snow, cold rains and mud of March before we can realize the promise of Spring, we must also endure the cold reality of that which we face as we look forward to the promise of God. We must endure the challenges while we wait with expectation of the promise that the Lord of the Harvest has waiting for us. Before we see blossoms of new ministries and blooms of new people coming into a relationship with the Risen Lord, we will face trials. But through all that we may face, let us remember God’s promise for us: “God will be our God and we will be God’s people!”

In closing, may I remind each of you that God is the God who keeps His promises. And may the promise of a “Spring-time faith” fill you with anticipation.

Rev. Ray McGee

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

Warmly Welcomed
(audio version)

Read: Philemon 1-7

Several years ago I had the opportunity to go to Italy at Easter with three other women. It was a trip of a life time! None of us spoke Italian or had been there before but with Rick Steve’s guide book in hand we set out to explore the country. We took a gondola ride in Venice, rubbed the boar's snout in Florence, walked the hillside hiking trails that linked the towns of Cinque Terre. We toured the Galleria degli Uffizi, stood in awe of Michelangelo’s David at the Gallerie dell’Accademia, tossed coins in the Tivoli fountain, and saw the Coliseum ruins in Rome. A whirlwind of people, places and history.

When we returned home and reminisced about our grand adventure, all 4 of us agreed that one place touched us all. That was the town of Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, where the Basilica of St. Francis is located. We stayed at a Monastery: St Anthony’s – Franciscan Sisters of the Atonement Guest House. There we were greeted by the Sisters and warmly welcomed into their home. We ate meals with them, talked, laughed and prayed with them. They shared their life stories with us. It was truly the most peaceful place I have ever been. Walking in the olive tree grove there you could feel God’s arms of comfort and love. Sitting on the hillside overlooking the valley you could hear the soft whisper of God’s voice in the gentle breeze. A very different experience from the hustle and bustle of the trip. The hospitality of the Sisters will always remain in my heart. I smile when I think of the day that we left them there, each of us were given a brown paper bag sack lunch for our trip and they said a prayer for safe travels. I still have that brown paper bag tucked away in the guide book. (I can hear Rob say “I’m sure you do. You don’t throw away anything!”) If I know the Ladies that I traveled with they too still have their paper bag. It may be an old empty crumpled brown paper bag but it holds so much more.

Dear God, Father and Holy Spirit, Thank you for the places that we can go and feel your amazing love through the people and nature that only you can create. Amen.

Prayer Focus: Hospitality

Julie Battle (College Grove UMC)

Tuesday, March 17, 2020

Humbling 
(audio version)

Read: Lamentations 3:37-41

It's a humbling experience when one who thinks he is self-sufficient finds out he is not. I had surgery on the bottom of my foot which made it difficult to get around, became house bound, and had to depend on others to take care of the bandages. As the days went by I found myself annoyed by any little thing that went wrong. It wasn't poor me, it was just intolerance for any little mishap. It's easy to magnify any small thing when the overall outlook for the day is just more of the same old stuff – shuffle instead of walk, kneel on a walker seat to keep from putting weight on the foot, and denounce any forgetful moment that meant retracing steps to retrieve something or turn something on or off.

Many things could be worse than this, but it's hard to remember that when your negativity tank gets full.

Fortunately the old tenet came into play – "This too shall pass" – and it did. A positive outlook can empty the negativity tank quickly – thank you God!

Jack van Becelaere

Monday, March 16, 2020

Is Life Unfair or More Than Fair?
(audio version)
Read: Psalm 73

From childhood we have learned the lesson that life is not fair, and subsequently taught that lesson to our own children. We say: "Life is not fair, get used to it." The lesson is a valuable one to learn because it is one of those facts of life that, once accepted, helps us to deal with the inequities we see. We observe that we are all unique but not all equal. Some people have the advantage of wealth, good looks, great genetics, good health, superior intellect, magnificent talents, etc. Some people gain advantage because they are skillful manipulators, cheaters, liars, criminals, etc. These inequities lead us to believe life is not fair. This issue has bothered people for centuries. To be fair means to be guided by truth, reason, and justice. Yet, we live in a sinful world, occupied by sinful people who may be untruthful, unreasonable, and unjust at the expense of others.

In Psalm 73, Asaph, a musician who was the leader of one of King David's Levitical choirs, struggled with what seemed to be a lack of fairness in the world. He was bothered by the prosperity of the wicked and began to envy them. Then he went to the sanctuary of God to seek his counsel and came to the understanding that prosperity of the wicked, unfair as it is, is only temporary because their judgment would be eternal. Likewise, the suffering of the righteous, also unfair, was only temporary and their reward would also be eternal. What a comfort to know that while life may not be fair, God is fair. In the meantime how do we deal with our Earthly circumstances? How can we be at peace in spite of injustice in the world?

My daughter's fourth grade teacher taught her an important lesson in life when her students complained that life was not fair. She told them that many times life is more than fair. Oscar Wilde said that "Life is never fair, and perhaps it is a good thing for most of us that it is not." Many people don't deserve what they get and many people don't get what they deserve. We tend to focus on unfair only when we are at a disadvantage. Yet, we are not at the mercy of the universe; we have control over our lives. The fairness dilemma is put to the test by the law of cause and effect, which is similar to the law of sowing and reaping. There is a direct correlation between what you put into life and what you get out of life, between what you sow and what you reap. That correlation does not guarantee great fortune because ultimately you have control only over the input, not the results, but you can be guaranteed of no fortune if you do nothing,

God understands unfairness, that is why he sent us his son to carry our sins for us. Jesus Christ makes life more than fair. He did for us what we cannot do for ourselves. God also understands the inequities in life and he asks us as persons of faith to do what is just, fair, and right not only for ourselves but for others. "...whatever you have done for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25:40)

As I assess my own life I reflect on the unmerited advantages God has given me: his love, the gift of salvation, his mercy, the Holy Bible, my family, my church, friendships, freedom of religion, opportunities to grow, the abundance and beauty of nature, the ability to reason, joy in accomplishment, purpose in living, etc. These things make life more than fair for me. In turn, the Lord requires me: "To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly in God.” (Micah 6:8).

Thank you, God, for your promises and for making life more than fair.

Pat Deck

Sunday, March 15, 2020

Christ Is Alive – UMH 318

Christ is alive! Let Christians sing.
The cross stands empty to the sky.
Let streets and homes with praises ring.
Love, drowned in death, shall never die.


Christ is alive! No longer bound
to distant years in Palestine,
but saving, healing, here and now,
and touching every place and time.


Not throned above, remotely high,
untouched, unmoved by human pains,
but daily, in the midst of life,
our Savior with the Father reigns.


In every insult, rift, and war
where color, scorn or wealth divide,
Christ suffers still, yet loves the more,
and lives, where even hope has died.


Women and men, in age and youth,
can feel the Spirit, hear the call,
and find the way, the life, the truth,
revealed in Jesus, freed for all.


Christ is alive, and comes to bring
good news to this and every age,
till earth and sky and ocean ring
with joy, with justice, love, and praise.


Brian Wren

Saturday, March 14, 2020

Psalm 22:1-8, 14-18 English Standard Version (ESV)
Why Have You Forsaken Me?
To the choirmaster: according to The Doe of the Dawn. A Psalm of David.

My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
    Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning?
O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer,
    and by night, but I find no rest.

Yet you are holy,
    enthroned on the praises of Israel.
In you our fathers trusted;
    they trusted, and you delivered them.
To you they cried and were rescued;
    in you they trusted and were not put to shame.

But I am a worm and not a man,
    scorned by mankind and despised by the people.
All who see me mock me;
    they make mouths at me; they wag their heads;
“He trusts in the Lord; let him deliver him;
    let him rescue him, for he delights in him!”

I am poured out like water,
    and all my bones are out of joint;
my heart is like wax;
    it is melted within my breast;
my strength is dried up like a potsherd,
    and my tongue sticks to my jaws;
    you lay me in the dust of death.

For dogs encompass me;
    a company of evildoers encircles me;
they have pierced my hands and feet—
I can count all my bones—
they stare and gloat over me;
they divide my garments among them,
    and for my clothing they cast lots.

Friday, March 13, 2020

How Are You?

Read: Matthew 5:1-11

About 25 years ago, after I retired, I started helping sort donations to be sent to different departments at our church rummage sale.

That’s when I worked beside Shirley Van Becelaere, and we became such good friends, and had a great time working and laughing together.

A few years ago, Shirley wrote a devotional about a cashier who, after Shirley asked how she was, the cashier replied, “I’m Blessed.”

I’ve used that response so often since then. This may be a repeat of her devotional, but it deserves a repeat, especially to those who may not have read or used it.

The response you will hear is enlightening. People will respond, “So am I,” or “It’s so good to hear such a nice answer,” or “You made my day better with that answer.”

If you feel blessed, try it and see the response you get. It may surprise you.

Prayer: Father, thank you for all the blessings you have given me. When people ask me how I am, help me to remember to tell them “I’m blessed,” because I am! Amen.

Sara Wooton

Thursday, March 12, 2020

A Real Gift from Our Parents

Read: Ephesians 3:14-21

Two days before News Years Day 2020 my 96-year-old mother had a stroke. Luckily the oldest of my three brothers was with her at her home in a continuing care facility (special nursing care wing) in Oberlin, OH, just south of Cleveland. By New Years Day, all four brothers and wives were able to arrive from around the country to lend support…and it also included three girl (women) cousins who have occasionally gathered with Mom for “girl-friend” weekends over the years.

I am writing this on Monday Jan 20th, after spending the afternoon with Mom and dinner at the facility’s Friends Corner dining room (the facility, called Kendal, is loosely affiliated with Quakers). She is down a couple of notches, but still able to understand conversation, do a little talking herself, and can still handle a spoon with soft food with some assistance.

Our parents worked hard to have the monetary resources to stay in this type of facility. I am grateful to them and the wonderful Kendal staff over the years that provided the very few needed services at the beginning, but now with full nursing care.

The real gift from our parents was the family unit that they encouraged from our early childhood up through now, where I am the youngest at 66 in 2020. Eating meals, sports, travel, reunions, and even a significant church upbringing; doing it as a family has sustained us and provided emotional support when it is needed most. Do not think it was always perfect, but the foundation laid was crucial in getting us over the occasional “family rough spots.”

We are hoping that Mom continues to thrive at the levels she can sustain, hoping that she is still with us until our son – her grandson, beloved by his Grandmother – Benjamin, arrives home in late May after 10 months from his deployment in the Middle East with the U.S. Army Reserve.


David DeWitt

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Alone

Read: Jeremiah 29:11

I dislike the term "widower." In my mind I'm still married and always will be. When you read this, Shirley will have been gone more than two years, but that hasn't changed my outlook. I said from the beginning "I have to live it but I don't have to like it." To paraphrase a line from a song about service men and women who didn't come back "she's in a better place up there – but she sure left a big hole down here."

There are some "pluses" to living alone, but they don't outweigh that one big "negative." I have changed my middle name many times to suit the occasion. Often it is "cope." Sometimes it is "audacious," or "klutz," or "inept," and one time it was "social butterfly." Generally it should be "lucky" because of all the people in the world – she chose me!

I know lucky is a worldly word and the real reason for my good fortune is divine intervention. I'm not the sharpest pencil in the box, but I know I didn't manage to win her on my own. You don't know anyone more blessed than I. If you want examples of God's infinite wisdom – look no further than Charlie and Jacki.

Jack van Becelaere

A Winner

Read: Matthew 5:14-16

The general idea is to leave this world better when you leave than it was when you got here. If that's the only criterion, then I am a winner. I claim an 8% improvement (which I rounded up from 7.5%) for the two proofs – Charlie and Jacki!

Not everyone is fortunate enough to have the best mother allowed – but they were. Both are integral parts of their respective churches (not a whole lot of thanks to me). Both are integral parts of their workforce. I couldn't be more proud of how they turned out and who they married.

It's a great comfort to me about how I am leaving the world!

Jack van Becelaere

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

Moms

Zephaniah 3:17 NLT  “For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.”

I’ve always been pretty good at saying goodbye. That’s good when you are a traveler. I also think I’m pretty good at singing. That too is good when you’re a traveler. Music has been a good way for me to get to know new people – a way to introduce myself. It turns out that music is a really good way to say goodbye.

Hearing is thought to be the last sense to leave the body when someone is dying. That’s what the nurse in my mom’s room told us. So every day I walked in and cheerily spoke to my unconscious mom. One day Pastor Pam called when I happened to be alone in the room with mom, and we prayed over her. And often I pulled out a guitar and sang. Her favorite hymns. My favorite hymns. Christmas songs. Whatever. I know she liked to listen to me sing, and I fully believed that she could hear me. I heard comments that the other patients enjoyed it too.

A couple months later when my dear friend Marge (who I thought of as my Tennessee mom), went into the hospital, I didn’t think it was about to be the same.  Most of the time she was in the hospital she was alert, so when I walked in and cheerily spoke to her, I knew she heard me. One day Pastor Pam called her while I was there and prayed with her. And often I took my guitar and sang to her. Her favorite hymns. My favorite hymns. No Christmas songs. I know Marge liked to listen to me sing too and I knew she could hear me. I heard comments that the other patients enjoyed it too. Then she went home to hospice care. The last day I visited she was not conscious, but I had my guitar and I was certain she could hear me sing. I stayed for a while and her daughter, Karen, and her sister, Carolyn, joined me in one last song. “Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling” About 15 minutes after I got back to my house, Karen let me know that Marge had died.

What a joy to know that I had been able to sing both of my moms home!
Music was my way of saying goodbye to both of them.

Prayer: Thank you God for mothers! Thank you for the gift of music and for creating such a beautiful way to connect with people. Amen

Jacki Rumpp (College Grove UMC)

Monday, March 9, 2020

Make a Joyful Noise

Read: UMH vii (Wesley’s Directions for Singing)

I began singing in church choirs while I was in college so, on a more or less continuous basis, I’ve been a member of a choir one place or another for over fifty years. During that time I’ve learned an awful lot about church and choral music. I’ve been blessed to be associated with many excellent musicians – the organist/choir director at my first Methodist (not yet United Methodist) church, the choir director at the church I attended while I lived in Baton Rouge, and of course the entire music team here at GPUMC. I also have to add the many fine singers with whom I’ve been privileged to raise my voice in praise of God.

Sometimes the music conveys the message so well that one doesn’t necessarily even need to understand the words (don’t tell Patti I said that!). Sometimes the words touch you in such a way that it doesn’t matter what the tune is (although we’ve recently discovered at least one hymn tune that was, ahem, difficult to sing). Examples of the former would be “Crucifixus” (He was crucified) and “Et Resurrexit” (On the third day He rose…”) from the Mass in B Minor by J. S. Bach. Even though the words are in Latin and you may not know the translation, if you can’t get the idea of Christ suffering for us on the cross and then gloriously rising from the dead from the music alone, you just aren’t listening.

On the other hand there are instances of words being so moving that it really wouldn’t matter if you were just reciting, rather than singing, them. An example of this for me would be verses five and six of “For All the Saints” as printed in our hymnal. The idea of all those whom we see no more streaming through “gates of pearl” with hearts that are “brave again, and arms (that are) strong,” all the while “singing to Father, Son, and Holy Ghost” never fails to cause a catch in my throat as I sing those words, for they convey a glorious promise.

Whether you like a certain hymn or anthem because the words are particularly meaningful to you or because the music is wonderful (which for me usually means fun to sing as well as perfectly fitting the text) or both, take the time to look, listen, and appreciate what the author and composer were trying to convey and any time you sing or hear any of these pieces, remember why we sing them.

Art Van de Putte

Sunday, March 8, 2020

Easter People, Raise Your Voices – UMH 304

Easter people raise your voices
Sounds of Heaven in Earth should ring
Christ has brought us Heaven's choices
Heavenly music let it ring
Alleluia alleluia
Easter people let us sing


Fear of death can no more stop us
From our pressing here below
For our Lord empowered us
To triumph over every foe
Alleluia alleluia
On to victory now we go


Every day to us is Easter
With its resurrection song
Even when life overwhelms us
Easter people sing this song:
Alleluia alleluia
Everlasting Sunday song.


William M. James

Saturday, March 7, 2020

Psalm 16 English Standard Version (ESV)
You Will Not Abandon My Soul
A Miktam of David.

Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord;
    I have no good apart from you.”

As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones,
    in whom is all my delight.

The sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply;
    their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out
    or take their names on my lips.

The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup;
    you hold my lot.
The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
    indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.

I bless the Lord who gives me counsel;
    in the night also my heart instructs me.
I have set the Lord always before me;
    because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.

Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices;
    my flesh also dwells secure.
For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,
    or let your holy one see corruption.

You make known to me the path of life;
    in your presence there is fullness of joy;
    at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Friday, March 6, 2020

Sisters, Sisters, There Were Never Such Devoted Sisters

Read: Matthew 5:13-16

My sister and I like to sing the song from the movie White Christmas, “Sisters.” Though the words are whimsical, the message rings true. We are devoted to and feel blessed to have one another.

I am participating in the small group Disciple’s Path program, based on the study guide written by Rev. James Harnish. The study asks us to think about who in our lives introduced us to our faith and our church, and who influenced you to follow Christ.

There have been several that have encouraged me along the way, including my parents, my Granny, and some key clergy. But having been asked to think about it, my sister is the greatest beacon for me to continue my faith journey and be a full participant in the life of our church.

Church was central in our family growing up. Our parents taught Sunday School, and worked as leaders for our MYF group. It was my sister who demonstrated to me the value of our faith community. We were in choir together, youth group, and Sunday school. We washed many dishes after Lenten dinners with the other youth, washed cars, cooked dinners, and participated in retreats.

When she got married and moved out of state, she and my brother-in-law continued to model Christian teachings for me. They included me unconditionally and supported me as I finished college and struck out on my own. They shared their sons with me, allowing me to play a central role in their lives. Their kindness and generosity and Christian love has sustained me.

For a time I did not attend church. My sister never questioned me about my absence. She did however lead me back. She recruited me to help her with projects at church along with others when the church budget was limited. The communal work drew me back. We painted my way back to Christ.

I am grateful every day for my sister’s love and leadership. She is a rock for her family and many friends. Her quiet leadership and loving spirit has made a huge difference for so many. The other day, I was in my sister’s basement playing with her granddaughter. We ran across a golden book, entitled So Big. I remembered that book, the words the sweet illustrations, but most of all I remember by sister reading it to me. How lucky am I?

Nancy Grose

Thursday, March 5, 2020

A Lifetime of Thanks

Read: Psalm 121

When you get to the upper end of the age scale, it doesn't take Thanksgiving Day to make you realize there have been so many things to be thankful for in your life time. I didn't know at the time I met Shirley that there was Divine Intervention at play. As I look back, God has been taking care of me and directing my path to the point where I can't think of "enemies" or great misfortunes that have beset me.

Maybe not exactly a charmed life, but one of great joy. Wonderful experiences for a life time crowned with a perfect wife and children. No one is more blessed and has more to be thankful for than I.

Thank you God!

Jack van Becelaere

Signs of a Great Day

Read: Lamentations 3:21-25

As I sit here this morning the sun is lighting up the trunk of the maple tree in the back yard. The sun comes up every morning – the maple tree is there every day – but on mornings when the trunk is lit up I take it as the sign of a great day.

This morning I was checking the bandage on my right thumb to see if any blood seeped through in the night. Answer – no. My first thought was – "Thank you God." Then I wondered if I had done my part all the while looking out at the tree. As I was entertaining those thoughts – the light on the tree brightened. I took that as a sign that I had! A meteorologist might have another explanation – but I'm not one so I don't have to listen to that rot!

Jack van Becelaere

Wednesday, March 4, 2020

ACTS

Read: Luke 11: 1-4

I am enjoying “A Disciple’s Path” along with many others at GPUMC. Since I have been a United Methodist since 1968, and a Methodist before that, I am very familiar with the history and doctrine of our denomination. I can always learn new things, though, and old things are made new through the lens of time.

I particularly enjoyed the units about prayer. My prayer life has been long, varied, and active, but I noticed that I was missing some of the elements of prayer, modeled after the Lord’s Prayer, that we learned from Jesus.

The ACTS form of prayer includes Adoration, Contrition, Thanksgiving, and Supplication. I LOVE beginning a prayer with adoration. It reminds me to whom I am talking: our spectacular creator, loving God, awesome guide, maker of me and of all that I see! Starting with these ways to address our God just puts me into a different frame of mind to begin prayer. It feels quieter and more special at the same time.

Contrition is a newer habit for me. I recognize that I stand before God’s glory as a sinner, as a weak human who needs God. I admit actions and thoughts that have not been my best. I promise to do better. This portion of prayer puts me in a humble position and reminds me not to become self-righteous. I am able to come before our Lord with honesty and openness.

Thanksgiving comes easily – praying about blessings large and small can fill many hours of prayer.

When we ask our God’s attention on certain issues and people, that is supplication. I also can spend many hours requesting love and light for people whom I love, people who are struggling, disasters that happen worldwide. God is always needed in tiny and huge situations.

This form of prayer does not include the most difficult element – listening. I am working on listening for God’s call in every prayer also, and this is new for me. It requires me to be quiet and still. I love to be in God’s presence in prayer. It helps my days and nights to go smoothly.

Prayer: Loving Creator, thank you for blessing me, a humble part of your magnificent creation. Help my unbelief and keep my faith strong. Let me listen for your voice and your call. In Jesus’s name, Amen.

Anne Sullivan

Tuesday, March 3, 2020

Out of the Mouths of Babes – Part I

Read: Acts 9:36-43


We should never underestimate the huge value of Sunday School for educating our children. I guess that few people in the church will ever dispute that, but at the same time, those who teach are rewarded in ways they may never anticipate.

Last Memorial Day Sunday, my grandchildren (ages 8 and 11) and their parents were in church to hear Boppa’s (Larry’s) name read as one of those in our congregation who had passed since the previous Memorial Day. I took the children to Sunday School after the Chancel Chat until the end of the service when the names were read.

Lisa Sicklesteel was teaching the combined Sunday School class that morning and the Bible lesson was from the book of Acts about how Peter raised Tabitha from the dead. To be honest I wasn’t really familiar with that story. According to Acts, Peter was in town when one of his followers, Tabitha, fell sick and died. Tabitha’s family immediately called Peter to come to pray with them, which he did; and as he was praying Tabitha came back to life.

Well my grandson, Charlie, age 8, listened to that story carefully and then asked: “Why couldn’t they have done that to Boppa?” Well, why indeed. I wasn’t there to hear Lisa’s answer but I’m sure it gave her pause as it did me when she told this story.

Let us never pass up a chance to learn from our children.

Vivian Anderson

Monday, March 2, 2020

Clean Your Closet!

Read: Matthew 6:1-6

“When thou prayest, enter into thy closet and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to the Father which is in secret.”

Suppose we took Christ’s words in this scripture literally and we tried to get into one of our closets at home to pray. Most of us would find there would not be enough room. We would find a lot of old things that should have been thrown away a long time ago. Some things should have been given away. And we would find things that are of no value to anyone – a lot of junk.

But, let us look at the verse another way. The only way we can really pray, really commune with God, and really pray for each other is to get rid of some “things” – some old things like pride and jealousy. We also hold on to some things like talents, time, and friendships that we should be sharing. And some things are of no value to anyone – like grudges, hard feelings, harsh words.

It is hard to get rid of these things. But only when we clean out the closets of our minds and hearts can we succeed in prayer.

Mary Ann Warf (College Grove UMC)

Sunday, March 1, 2020

Now the Green Blade Riseth – UMH 311

Now the green blade riseth, from the buried grain,
Wheat that in dark earth many days has lain;
Love lives again, that with the dead has been:
Love is come again like wheat that springeth green.


In the grave they laid Him, Love who had been slain,
Thinking that He never would awake again,
Laid in the earth like grain that sleeps unseen:
Love is come again like wheat that springeth green.


Forth He came at Easter, like the risen grain,
Jesus who for three days in the grave had lain;
Quick from the dead the risen One is seen:
Love is come again like wheat that springeth green.


When our hearts are wintry, grieving, or in pain,
Jesus' touch can call us back to life again,
Fields of our hearts that dead and bare have been:
Love is come again like wheat that springeth green.


J.M.C. Crum

Saturday, February 29, 2020

Psalm 2 English Standard Version (ESV)
The Reign of the Lord's Anointed

Why do the nations rage
    and the peoples plot in vain?
The kings of the earth set themselves,
    and the rulers take counsel together,
    against the Lord and against his Anointed, saying,
“Let us burst their bonds apart
    and cast away their cords from us.”

He who sits in the heavens laughs;
    the Lord holds them in derision.
Then he will speak to them in his wrath,
    and terrify them in his fury, saying,
“As for me, I have set my King
    on Zion, my holy hill.”

I will tell of the decree:
The Lord said to me, “You are my Son;
    today I have begotten you.
Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage,
    and the ends of the earth your possession.
You shall break them with a rod of iron
    and dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel.”

Now therefore, O kings, be wise;
    be warned, O rulers of the earth.
Serve the Lord with fear,
    and rejoice with trembling.
Kiss the Son,
    lest he be angry, and you perish in the way,
    for his wrath is quickly kindled.
Blessed are all who take refuge in him

Friday, February 28, 2020

Godly Humor?

Read: James 1:16-18

If I didn't know better, this Fall could make me question the omnipotence of God! A heavy snowfall before the leaves are off the trees! And after the snow melted – many of the trees still held their leaves.

I understand some leaves seem to hang on all winter (after all there is always that 10% that doesn't get the word, a la John Paul Jones), but the way things have gone, and the way people reacted to it – this should affirm that God has a Sense of Humor.

Jack van Becelaere

Invisible Support

Read: Colossians 1:15-17

Today as I sat looking out the window – suddenly I noticed a bright red cardinal sitting unsupported – in mid-air! Surrounded by falling and blowing snow, it sat there, was able to turn to face the wind, and then turn back again.

Silhouetted against a background of brown tree trunks and limbs there was no way to discern exactly what was holding up the cardinal. It was inspiring to see this bright spot of red against such a drab background. It turned out (of course) that it was sitting on a wire. While we know there was this physical means of support for the cardinal, it reminded me that each of us has an invisible means of support – it's called God!

Jack van Becelaere

Thursday, February 27, 2020

Lenten Devotion

Read: 1 Thessalonians 5:11-24

The word devotion is described by our digital friend Mr. or Ms. Google as “love, loyalty, or enthusiasm for a person, activity, or cause.”
With a religious meaning, devotions are “prayers or religious observances.”
I want to briefly just express my gratitude for:
    a)  those who speak on Sundays, be it a sermon, a scripture reading, or an announcement at the end of the service;
    b) those who teach on Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings to help the choir singers and instrumentalists (piano and bells) be as good as they can be;
    c) those who offer study groups to help the attendees learn to put God more in their lives not just on Sunday or weekly but daily.
I want to share two separate quotes from page 134 of The Purpose Driven Life, by Rick Warren (a professional colleague of Ray McGee if I am not mistaken) whose book was studied last fall in Lisa and Steven Sicklesteel’s weekly class;

“A church family helps you develop spiritual muscle” and later on the same page…..
….
“We are commanded to love each other, pray for each other, encourage each other, admonish each other, greet each other, serve each other, teach each other, accept each other, honor each other, bear each other’s burdens, forgive each other, submit to each other, be devoted to each other, and many other mutual tasks. These are your family responsibilities that God expects you to fulfill through a local fellowship. Who are you doing these with?”

Russ Wilcox

Wednesday, February 26, 2020 – Ash Wednesday

Living a Thankful Life

Read: Colossians 2:6-10

Recently, I came across an article about a man named T. B. Maston. After obtaining a Doctor of Religious Education and a second Doctorate in Philosophy, Dr. Maston taught Christian Ethics for 41 years at a seminary in Dallas, Texas.

Over the years, Dr. Maston became noted for his attitude of thankfulness and gratitude in all circumstances. When asked what he attributed this attitude to he would tell of a dream that he had while facing a life threatening illness, an illness that most felt that he would not recover from. He tells of a dream that he had while in the midst of this battle for his life. In this dream, he was sitting upon a fence – on one side life, on the other, death. Upon his recovery, he spent the rest of his life living as an expression of thanks and gratitude to God.

In Paul’s letter to the church in Colossae, he writes:

“Plant your roots in Christ and let Him be the foundation for your life. Be strong in your faith, just as you were taught. And be thankful.” – Colossians 2:7-8

As Dr. Maston had acknowledged God’s grace and mercy showered upon him in his healing, we too must realize that God has healed and saved us. We can proclaim that Jesus is our Savior, our Rock, our Salvation, and the Author and Perfecter of our faith! Because we have found grace and forgiveness in Jesus Christ, all of our lives can be lived as an expression of thanks and gratitude.

Rev. Ray McGee