Devotional 12-30-16

Untethered by time, God sees us all. From the backwoods of Virginia to the business districts of London; from the Vikings to the astronauts, from the cave-dwellers to kings, from the hut-builders to the finger-pointers to the rock-stackers, he sees us.
Vagabonds and ragamuffins all, he saw us before we were born.

And he loves what he sees. Flooded by emotions. Overcome by pride, the Starmaker turns to us, one by one, and says, “You are my child. I love you dearly. I’m aware that someday you’ll turn from me and walk away. But I want you to know, I’ve already provided a way back.”

And to prove it, he’d did something extraordinary.

Stepping from the throne, he removed his robe of light and wrapped himself in skin: pigmented, Human skin. The light of the universe entered a dark, wet womb. He whom whom angels worship nestled himself in the placenta of a peasant, was birthed into the cold night, and then slept on cow’s hay.

Mary didn’t know whether to give him milk or give him praise, but she gave him both since he was, as near as she could figure, hungry and holy.

Joseph didn’t know whether to call him Junior or Father. But in the end called him Jesus, since that’s what the angel had said and since he didn’t have the faintest idea what to name a God he
could cradle in his arms.

....Don’t you think.....their heads tilted and their minds wondered, “What in the world are you doing God?” Or better phrased, “God, what are you doing in the world?”

“Can anything make me stop loving you?” God asked. “Watch me speak your language, sleep on your earth, and feel your hurts. Behold the maker of sight and sound as he sneezes, coughs
and blows his nose. You wonder if I understand how you feel? Look into the dancing eyes of the kid in Nazareth; that’s God walking to school. Ponder the toddler at Mary’s table; that’s God
spilling his milk.

“You wonder how long my love will last? Find your answer on a splintered cross, on a craggy hill. That’s me you see up there, your maker, your God, nail-stabbed and bleeding. Covered in spit
and sin-soaked.

“THAT’S YOUR SIN I’M FEELING. THAT’S YOUR DEATH I’M DYING. THAT’S YOUR RESURRECTION
I’M LIVING. THAT’S HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU.”

Melanie HerrTaken from The Glory of Christmas by Max Lucas in The Gift of Grace

Devotional 11-18-16

New Beginnings

Colossians 1:11-20   (CEB)
... by being strengthened through his glorious might so that you endure everything and have patience; ¹² and by giving thanks with joy to the Father. He made it so you could take part in the inheritance, in light granted to God’s holy people. ¹³ He rescued us from the control of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of the Son he loves. ¹⁴ He set us free through the Son and forgave our sins.

Hymn about Christ’s work
¹⁵  The Son is the image of the invisible God,
        the one who is first over all creation,
¹⁶  Because all things were created by him:
        both in the heavens and on the earth,
        the things that are visible and the things that are invisible.
            Whether they are thrones or powers,
            or rulers or authorities,
        all things were created through him and for him.
¹⁷  He existed before all things,
        and all things are held together in him.
¹⁸ He is the head of the body, the church,
who is the beginning,
        the one who is firstborn from among the dead
        so that he might occupy the first place in everything.
¹⁹  Because all the fullness of God was pleased to live in him,
²⁰         and he reconciled all things to himself through him—
        whether things on earth or in the heavens.
            He brought peace through the blood of his cross.

This is a time of new beginnings for our church, you the church, at Johnson Memorial UMC.  Eleven months, Dec. 27, 2015, many received a message that the church building had been struck by a fire.  Although the fire was quickly contained with minimal structural damage, blackness filled the whole building with soot.  We all felt some sort of blackness that day.  Where would we worship, how long before we could get into our beautiful sanctuary or even use the building on a daily basis?  Our prayers were answered and we, the church, were able to have function and worship the following week in JM.

The restorations have taken months but through the glory of God we celebrated our new beginning this past Sunday.

I don’t know how you heard the first choir anthem this week, “For the Beauty of the Earth”, but I heard a choir of angels descending but upon JM.  Wrapping us, the church, in Glory and letting us know that it is a time of new beginnings for us, the church, at JM.  Not only a revised space but with new leadership, by Rev. Deane and a revival in our mission to the community, not only in JM, but to all those around JM.

As in Col 1:13 He rescued us from the control of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of the Son he loves.  And verse 20 “and he reconciled all things to himself through him— whether things on earth or in the heavens.  He brought peace through the blood of his cross.”

We are reconciled to Jesus Christ to be the church for all!

This is a time of new beginnings at Johnson Memorial United Methodist Church.  A time to LOOK FORWARD and not back.

God Bless all in moving forward together as the CHURCH!!!
Fred Herr

Devotional 11-11-16

Reset Your Gratitude Meter
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Written by Daniel Darling, pastor and author

www.crosswalk.com

What are you thankful for? We gather, every year at this time, to reflect on the blessings of God over the past year. But in most families, Thanksgiving is less about real gratitude and more about stuffing your face, watching football, and hanging with the family. Some actually dread Thanksgiving, because they're forced to sit in a room with people they really don't enjoy. 

Now I'm all in favor of the food and the football. But this year, let's make Thanksgiving about giving and about thanks. This year, more than any, might force us to dig deeper. For many, it will mark a year since they've had employment. For others, Thanksgiving will bring another reminder that they haven't found that significant other. And there are those couples who have to face the family questions of why they still don’t have children. 

For many, this was a year marked by pain. So how do we summon the gratitude? Well, if you're a Christian, your basis is not your circumstances, but something greater. Paul tells the people of Thessalonica that they could "give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ."

In other words, followers of Christ believe that hardship is a grace gift from the Lord, sent for their growth, sanctification, and further intimacy with the Almighty. We don't believe we're here on this earth all alone. We believe God is firmly in charge. Though life may get hard--and it does--it all falls under God's sovereign will. And so we give thanks. 

As Americans, we really have cause for gratitude. I have to periodically remind myself of this and remind my family. We so easily get caught up in the easy lust for more stuff. Bigger house, nicer car, better clothes, newest gadgets. But then I remember my travels to third world countries, where I've seen real poverty--and real gratitude on the part of the Christians there. 

Tonight, my kids will go to bed with full stomachs. They'll have a roof over their heads. They will have two parents in the next room. They will ride in a nice car. They will have a future that includes a good education. All of those are things most kids in the world don't have. And so, they should be grateful. 

Let's not sit around the table carping about the election, complaining about our job status, whining about injustices from friends. Let's instead reset our gratitude meters and offer genuine, heartfelt thanks to God. For salvation in Christ. For His daily care. And for friends and family He graciously provides. Oh, and for wives that allow us to stuff our faces and watch football.

Provided by Diane Feaganes

Devotional 11-4-16

In my latest of edition of Readers Digest there is an excepted chapter from a book by Bob Odenkirk's book "A Load of Hooey" entitled, "How to Pick a Tatoo".

One of the first things Mr Odenkirk's emphasizes is three things:
1. Do not be in a hurry.
2. Do not be drunk.
3. Do not be drunk and in a hurry.

Tattoos are everywhere these days.  It's art and I get that.  I suppose there is a lot self expression in that art. 

They do have the ability to let people know how you feel about things but they are pretty much forever.  I am sure that errors in judgement or spelling can be most humbling.

I really appreciate the tattoos in people's lives that are not quite as physically visible.  The lives that bear the mark of life spent doing the right things and in service to Christ are the ones that mean the most to me.  I see those whenever I am at church and see the folks that are there.  Those are the most impactful works of art I see.  And that ink never fades.  It's eternal.

Mike Bowen

Devotional 10-28-16

Please read Luke 19:1-10

This week's gospel text is the story of Zacchaeus, the rich tax collector who experienced a radical life-changing transformation when he met Jesus.

This was one of my father's favorite bible passages. It is compelling; who doesn't love a good conversion story. The ornerier the sinner/-cum-saint, the better the testimony. Although we don't know much about Zacchaeus, Luke gives enough details that the original audience would have made no mistake as to his deplorable nature. Zacchaeus, says Luke, was both a tax collector and rich.

I imagine first-century Palestinians didn't like to render unto Caesar any more than peoples of all times and places throughout history. Today we may have disdain for the IRS, but ancient Jews had a better reason for their hatred of tax collectors. These "publicans" were in collusion with the occupying nation to collect taxes from their own neighbors--they were seen as traitors. Moreover, tax collectors got rich by collecting more than the amount due and keeping the extra. No wonder the crowd grumbled when Jesus chose to eat with Zacchaeus.

What dad liked about the story of Zacchaeus is how, when we are looking for Jesus, He finds us. And life will never be the same.

I went to a United Methodist Men meeting with Dad at his church where he shared a devotional he had written based on Zacchaeus's conversion. For Dad, Zacchaeus experienced new life because he was willing to leave his place of comfort--the sycamore tree where he could view Jesus from a distance. How often we might be tempted to watch from afar without any personal commitment or participation. But Jesus says to Zacchaeus and, I think, to us, "hurry and come down!"

When Zacchaeus and when we respond obediently, our lives are changed.

Dad concluded, "Check your fingernails. Do you have sycamore bark from clinging on to keep your distance?"

May each of us seek Jesus and be found.

Jeff Taylor

Devotional 10-21-16

Devotion comes from Luke 18:1-8

This is a story of a persistent widow and a hard hearted judge. He feared neither God nor man. The widow had a problem which the judge refused to solve. She tenaciously bombarded the judge until he caved, not because of fear or regard, but he just got worn down.

This tells me that whatever pursuit which we have, we must continue to attack the problem and not give up.

Years ago when I was fighting the nickel wars at INCO, problems would come up which had to solved. Early on, I gave up after a brief struggle. Later, after being battle hardened by many problems, I found out that not giving up solves a lot of problems.

A Consultant told us that one of our biggest problems is the lack of tenacity, that is, giving up too easily.

As we face our daily struggles in daily living and prayer life, we have to keep trying.

Of course some things are truly unattainable. I’ll never be as tall as Marv Jones or as smart as Gil Ratcliff. It would be foolish and a waste of time. However, every day I can strive to be a better Christian, friend, husband, and church member. Every day I have failures, but thank the Lord, I can get up in the morning and try again.

 A little poem a friend shared with me is titled; "Don't Quit". It gives the same message as the scripture.

When things go wrong as they sometimes will,

when the road you're trudging seems all uphill,

when the funds are low and the debts are high,

when you want to smile but you have to sigh,

when care is pressing you down a bit,

rest if you must BUT DON'T YOU QUIT.

Success is failure turned inside out,

the silver tint of the clouds of doubt.

you can never tell how close you are;

it may be near when it seems so far,

so stick to the fight when you're hardest hit,

it's when things seem worst that you must not quit.

Devotional 10-14-16

Please read Jeremiah 29: 1-7

In this reading, Jeremiah is writing to the Jewish elders, priests, prophets and to all the people who have been deported to Babylon.

Jeremiah is writing from Jerusalem to all of these people who have been sent from their lands and family and friends. He tells them that this is a letter from the Lord of Hosts, the God of Israel.

The letter tells these people that they are to build homes, plant vineyards and plan to stay. They are to marry and raise families and multiply.

 They are to pray for peace and the prosperity of Babylon for if Babylon has peace and prosperity, they will also.

 When I read this I had to think about our upcoming Presidential election. It's hard not to when everywhere you look it seems to be the topic. I'm not saying it shouldn't be, it's very important. I guess that what I'm trying to say is that no matter who wins, lots and lots of people are going to be unhappy. There will be many reasons for that and so many of those reasons will be viable but, there is one thing that we can all do. 

Before, during and after this election, especially after, pray for peace in our country and around the world. Pray for prosperity in this city, this state and this country. Pray for our leaders, especially if you don't like them. Sitting back and saying  "I knew this would be bad for us" only insures it will be bad for us. Praying to our Heavenly Father for wisdom and understanding may not make things change in the blink of an eye but it may change how we look at things or at other people and that can change things, even if it takes a few years, like four maybe.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, As your children we always need your guidance and right now we could use lots of that. Please help us as we try to make the best decisions that we can in this coming election but even more important, help us to remember that we are all your children and we need to pray that whom ever wins this election will need your help and our prayers to do the best job that they can. That will benefit all of us. In your name we pray. Amen

Debbie McGinnis

Devotional 10-8-16

Lost Faith

Lectionary Readings:  Lamentations 1:1-6; Psalm 137; 2 Timothy 1:1-14; Luke 17: 5-10

The apostles came up and said to the Master, “Give us more faith.”  But the Master said, “You don’t need MORE faith.  If you have a bare kernel of faith, say the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Go jump in a lake,’ and it would do it.  Luke 17: 5-6. (The Message)

During the spring of 2007, the children of JM were learning a song, “The Kingdom of God is like a Mustard Seed”.  The lyrics for this version were based on the Matthew, chapter 13 version of the mustard seed story.  They were happily learning the song, but didn’t really understand what they were singing about.  Most of them had some experience with planting seeds and watching them grow, but were not making the connection to their own faith.  I had taken pictures of several large mustard plants and I had a spice jar of mustard seeds, but they were not impressed. One of the kids then suggested that we plant some seeds and the adults agreed that it would be a great idea.  I searched the seed packet racks for mustard seeds, but had no luck, so as a last resort we planted 2-3 of the spice jar mustard seeds in small cups of dirt. The kids marveled during the planting that the seeds were so tiny and would be easy to get lost, especially if they were outside and planting in the ground. The kids watered the cups and placed them on the south facing window sills.  I watered them on the following Wednesday, but there was no change—it still looked like a cup of dirt.  I really thought that we had planted “processed” mustard seeds and they were not going to grow anything.  My faith in the whole process was sadly lacking.  I didn’t even have the faith of a tiny mustard seed.

Then, a week after the big planting, the kids showed up for practice and “WOW!!”, the little cups showed some definite green shoots emerging from the dirt.  We continued to water the plants twice a week for about a month.  The mustard plants grew to look exactly like the pictures I had googled on the internet and were outgrowing their cups.  The children talked easily about the tiny seeds they had seen go into the cups and the plants that were now growing.  They joyfully sang “The Mustard Seed” anthem in morning worship and talked about sharing the story of these seeds with their family and friends.  They “got” it….

I, however, still found it difficult to believe.  I didn’t tell any of the kids or the other adults, but I had serious doubts that the seeds would sprout.  During the planting process, I had such a negative expectation that I was planning what I could do to assist the kids with their disappointment when the seeds did not grow.  I fully expected the whole project to be a “bust”.  I had not expected a good outcome, let alone a great outcome.  Thankfully, I was so wrong!!!

In the Luke version, the disciples start the conversation by asking for more faith.  I can definitely understand the desire for an increase in my faith.  In this situation, I felt like I did not have any faith at all.  And yet, God continued to be at work in the situation. God was in charge of the universe and my job was to learn and let go of my doubts. There was no doubt that a plant was growing from a tiny seed. Every seed of faith, no matter how small, is still powerful enough to be used to share God’s love with others.

 Jesus used the description of this common and seemingly well-known seed as a way to explain what was needed to help the kingdom of God grow.  Without a doubt, God has already supplied all that we need to navigate this life.  From small steps, little ideas, initial attempts, etc., great things can develop when we allow God to guide our path.  Remember-- “This little light of mine”-- where a small amount of light can make large changes in the environment.    And then there is “It only takes a spark to get a fire going”…  We all have something to add to the picture.  We need to fully rely on God for direction and not be afraid of the outcome.  God will use every situation, discussion and attempt to advance the cause of LOVE.

Dear God, our guide and teacher,

       We thank you for all the lessons and teachings of your Holy Word.  We are sorry that we do not always have faith in your teachings.  You have said that all we need is the faith of a mustard seed, and yet, sometimes we feel that we do not even that much.  Help us to continue to study and learn from the example of your son, Jesus.  Lead us to the path that brings us closer to you. You are all that we need.  In His Holy Name, AMEN.

Chyrl Budd

Devotional 9-30-16

This weekend, a magazine will hit the stands with the headline "King of Kings." But it's not about the person you're thinking of. The magazine is Sports Illustrated, and the cover story is about Arnold Palmer, who died last Sunday. Now, I'm not going to compare a golfer to Jesus Christ, but, as the old saying goes, preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words. I think we can find some inspiration from the life of Arnold Palmer. 

"Success in this game depends less on strength of body than strength of mind and character."
My Dad was an avid golfer. Many Saturday and Sunday afternoons of my youth were spent with the family gathered around the black and white TV watching golf tournaments. And there was Arnie's Army. The fans sure loved that man! Sort of reminds one of Jesus' followers. 

“When people ask what’s driven me all these years, I always give the same answer. It’s you.”
Arnold Palmer and TV were a match made in (yes, I'm going to say it) heaven. He popularized the game and became one of the first sports figures to be a corporate spokesman, which led to a successful business career.

"I'm not much for sitting around and thinking about the past or talking about the past. What does that accomplish? If I can give young people something to think about, like the future, that's a better use of my time."
"Making a positive change in the life of a child is one of the most significant things you can do."
Arnold Palmer was a dedicated philanthropist. The Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Children are in Orlando, and there are cancer centers that bear his name in Pennsylvania and California. 

"Success in this game depends less on strength of body than strength of mind and character."
He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2004 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2012, when Senator Harry Reid said, "Golf made you famous, but your tireless efforts to save lives, not your short game, will make you immortal."

Arnold Palmer was known for giving autographs freely and his signature was always legible. He told younger players that if someone takes the time to ask for an autograph, they should take the time to write their names, not scribble their initials. A classmate of mine wrote a lovely remembrance this week and gave me permission to share it:

The year was 1960. An eleven-year old boy, his mom and his best friend headed off for an exciting day of golf spectating. It was the West Virginia Open at Spring Valley Country Club in Huntington, WV. with a first prize of $1,200, and he and his mother and friend were manning one of the volunteer tents supporting the event.

Sam Snead, Art Wall and the charismatic Arnold Palmer were the tournament headliners, and this young boy hoped to at least get a chance to watch them hit a tee shot or two and maybe even get their autographs.

When Snead was approaching the first tee this young golfer attempted to get his autograph and was brushed aside by "Slammin' Sammy" with a comment that has been lost to memory..

Art Wall graciously accepted this young golfer’s request and signed the program that he presented for his autograph.

And then Palmer approached the tee. Although he would end up finishing third in the event, "Arnies Army" was in full attendance as usual admiring and supporting his aggressive, and sometimes erratic, brand of golf.

It needs to be mentioned here that Palmer's most prolific years were 1960–1963, when he won 29 PGA Tour events, including five major tournament victories, in four seasons. In 1960, he won the Hickok Belt as the top professional athlete of the year and Sports Illustrated magazine's "Sportsman of the Year" award.

Yet, when asked for his autograph by this timid 11 year old with his friend by his side, this Master's Champion turned and said "sure kid" and signed his and his buddy’s programs.  And then, in true "people’s champion" style, he put his arms around these two idolizing youngsters and posed for a picture with them as if they were his own.
That timid 11 year old was me.

This is the legacy of Arnold Palmer. An incredible golfer, businessman, humanitarian, and most of all a champion who took time to make a couple of young boys’ day! --Fred Nickles

"The more I practice the luckier I get." 
Anita Gardner Farrell

Devotional 9-23-16

Each week there are several scripture options to help devotional writers. And as I prepare to write my devotion, I always check to see what the week’s scriptures have to say. Well, this week I was startled by the consistency of their themes—so similar I felt moved to use them as a basis for my devotion. But be prepared. They deal with conflict, persecution, suffering, torture, grief…and death. But isn’t it true that we find ourselves in a world just like this? So it’s an appropriate topic related to the scriptures for this week, right? Take a look (they’re all brief but very thought provoking and revealing). Scriptures:

1. Psalm 79: 1-9
2. Jeremiah 8:18-9:1
3. Psalm 4 
4. 1 Timothy 2:1-7 

Wow. The impact still has me struggling. And yet, it is timely and significant, something I’m sure we all think about daily. We are shocked at the cruelty and inhumane actions of Isis. We are confused about the supposed combined efforts of the United States and Russia to end the war in Syria (how many times now?) knowing the political implications are always there, at the expense of innocent civilians—many who are children, murdered and dying, imprisoned in a place from which they cannot escape.

There is the hatred by some in our own country who have their own terroristic agenda, be it racial, religious or political—yes, political! So much chaos has invaded our lives we don’t know how to handle it, where to turn, or what to do. I have become so discouraged, and fearful of what the future holds for our children and their children. What is happening and why? Can we do anything about it? Here is what I think God would like us to consider:

PRAYER. Well, we will pray—sincerely turn to Him in prayer to share our hopes, our fears, and our concerns for ourselves and for others here and far away who continually suffer.

LISTENING. God has such good advice for us if we just listen. He will guide us with answers, let us know what we should do not only for ourselves, but for others who are far worse off.

TRUSTING. We will trust in God to help us accomplish His will.

HAVING FAITH. We will have faith. A constant and unified effort by ALL Christians everywhere, working in numerous ways to restore world peace, can work—if we work. God will see and He will hear. He will know that, as Christ’s disciples, we are sincere in our desire to initiate the healing process.

SPREADING HOPE. We must not give up.

SPREADING LOVE. It begins with loving one another.

Ambitious? Yes. Time consuming? Yes. An unbelievable and complicated task? Absolutely!

Risky? Of course. Are we naïve? Perhaps, but Possible? With God’s help…all things are possible.

Diane Feaganes

Devotional 9-15-16

Read Luke 15: 1-7 The Parable of the Lost Sheep

Read Luke 15: 8-10 The Parable of the Lost Coin

How often have you ever rejoiced?  Not just feeling good or happy but actually rejoicing over someone or some event.  As I think on this I realize not very often! Oh sure- the birth of our daughter and grandchildren.....maybe... but in the everyday living it is rare for me.

Luke sets the scene in Chapter 15 by stating that Jesus was with the tax collectors & “sinners” and the Pharisees and teachers of the law were objecting to this.  Does Jesus confront the leaders? Does he call them out for their hypocrisy? Does he ignore them?  No- he uses this opportunity as a teachable moment!

Jesus tells all who are there these 2 parables.  In both of them Jesus reminds the people that like the lost sheep or coin there is great REJOICING in Heaven and in the presence of angels when even one sinner repents!

We may not think of living in God’s Kingdom here on Earth...... but we do!  Just like the teachers of the law in Israel’s day we have a tendency to judge.  Unfortunately, I suspect when we see or hear of someone coming to Christ we may not celebrate it like we should.  However, today’s scripture serves to remind all of us that even when one lost soul is found -just like the angels in Heaven- we should join with them and rejoice!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for this day.  We thank you for all the blessings we receive.  Help us to celebrate every time someone comes to know you as we await that house not built with hands- eternal to the Heavens.  Amen

Marv Jones

Devotional 9-10-16

Anger Management

1 Peter 5:7  Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

I knew I was in trouble when I cursed the bar of Ivory soap. For weeks I had watched it slowly slide across the shower stall shelf and fall to the floor. “I need to buy a soap holder,” I would think, but I hadn’t followed through. Of course, having to pick up the soap again was not really the problem. I was just seriously, destructively angry.

There are things going on in my life right now that are not pleasant. I am angry. But I want to make it clear that I’m not angry with with anyone in particular. I am not angry with or feel deserted by God. My anger comes from an inability to fix things, to put them back the way they were.

When the soap incident happened, I knew I needed help. In the past when anger of this magnitude reared its ugly heard - my father’s stroke, my mother’s cancer- I would work as hard as I could to fix it and then self-medicate. That didn’t work then; I knew it wouldn’t work now. I asked God for help and my answer came in the strangest form.

As I ate my Sunday morning breakfast ( Yes, I have breakfast before I eat second breakfast in my Sunday School class), I flipped channels until I landed on the show “In Touch” with Dr. Charles Stanley. I have always loved his Southern accent, and on this particular day, he looked up from his TV podium and into my eyes. “You have to deal with your anger,” he said. “It’s a destructive behavior!” For a moment I thought I was in the movie Pleasantville. My mouth dropped open, I retrieved pencil and paper, and for the next hour I listened and took notes.

He said that to be victorious over anger, one must do several things.

She must identify it,

confess it,

purposely deal with it,

take emotional time outs,

replace it with something meaningful,

benefit from it,

and prevent it from reoccurring.

His explanations and examples helped clarify each stage; I could see that this might help.

Kim Matthews recently wrote about her experience with a bottle of water and making a real connection with a lady in need. Her story reminded me that God puts us where we need to be to hear His message or share His message. That Sunday morning I heard God’s message for me. I hope that sharing it will help you.I imagine all of us could use a little anger management from God.

Dear Father, we have lived long enough to know that everyone must deal with anger. We also know that it can’t be quantified or qualified. What we sometimes forget is how physically and spiritually damaging it can be. Please give us the strength, support, and information to help us when anger takes over our lives. We need You and Your peace now and forever.

Amen

  

Becky Warren

Devotional 9-2-16

The other evening, Steve was out of town, and I had a meeting at church. I parked at church and walked downtown to grab some dinner. If I'm eating alone, I often read, as I was that evening. I read a chapter out of Brene Brown's book, Rising Strong. This is what I read:

When you look away from a homeless person, you diminish their humanity and your own. (Quote from Father Murray Powell)

In the chapter, Brown struggles with her reaction to people in need - how she looks away from them instead of connecting with them. I was feeling the guilt of looking away as I read it. As I walked to dinner, a man had asked me for a quarter, and I had told him no.

After dinner, I was walking back to church. I walked by the yogurt store, and stopped, thinking a bottle of water would be great during the meeting, so I turned around and bought one, and dropped it down into my bag.

As I approached church, I saw a woman was sitting on our church steps. I started to go in, and she asked me for - you guessed it - a bottle of water.  No one has ever asked me for a bottle of water.

Do you think God was involved? I do.  I got a second chance to see someone who needed help and to respond. I was able to give a cold, unopened bottle of water to a thirsty woman. I drink water, but I rarely walk around town with an unopened bottle in my bag. And yet, God knew this woman needed water, and God knew I needed to give it to her.  Two humans, needing God.
Kim Matthews

Devotional 8-26-16

Prayer

Why do we pray? How do we pray? What answers do we want from prayer? How do I receive the answer to to my prayer? Praying is hard!

These are a few questions regarding prayer and I will not answer them.  I am not about to teach you how to pray.  What I will say is that prayer is a conversation with God.  Just as we converse with anyone in our daily lives.  The difference is that we are talking with God, one that we do not physical see.  Oh, we see and hear him in many away, just look around there he is.  And what we see or hear might be the answer to our prayer.  Sometimes our lack of an answer to what we want may be our answer.  Sometime ago my career had changed following many prayers.  But at a point in this new career I started having doubts.  Again I prayed, had I taken the right path?  I didn't feel I was receiving an answer until one day I realized that the lack of an expected answer was my answer.  This new career was were God wanted me to be.

In a recent reading by Norman Vincent Peale this quote; "prayer will bring you to the point where you will accept what God wants." The answer will not be immediate but it will come.

While you are praying let God and Jesus know that you love them and thank them for all that have done for you. Re-dedicate your life to them.  Be like a child, that is of love and trust in God.

"Prayer with this attitude can change your life wonderfully" (Norman Vincent Peale)
So pray daily have that cup of coffee or tea with your Father God. Enjoy the conversation no matter what is happening in your life he is there to guide you, even give you relief. 

From the Common English Bible:
Matthew 6:9-13 Pray like this: Our Father who is in heaven, uphold the holiness of your name. Bring in your kingdom so that your will is done on earth as it’s done in heaven. Give us the bread we need for today. Forgive us for the ways we have wronged you, just as we also forgive those who have wronged us. And don’t lead us into temptation, but rescue us from the evil one.
Amen

With Peace, Love and Blessings
Fred Herr
Inspired by the Holy Spirit and the writing of his servant Dr. Norman Vincent Peale.  

Devotional 8-19-16

Hold Hands and Dance

My 16 year old granddaughter, Savannah, had just finished a very traumatic 24 hours, “Gramma,”  she asked, “Why can’t we all just get along? Why can’t we all just hold hands and dance?” My heart broke for her, but the imagery that her question inspired has stuck with me. Why can’t we all just hold hands and dance?

John 3:16-17 tells us that God sent his Son into the world, not to judge the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. God sent Jesus into a chaotic world full of hate, greed, fear, jealousy, misunderstandings, and hurt feelings. Sound familiar? He sent Him to save us from ourselves. Jesus not only brought us forgiveness from our sins, He taught us how to live. He taught us not to judge others. He taught us to forgive ourselves and others. Most of all He taught us to love God and each other. I can’t help but wonder what would happen if all the world just lived by these simple precepts. Could we all just get along? Could Gods plan be for the world to hold hands and dance?

Margaret Williams

Devotional 8-12-16

This was taken from  book "Poems of Inspiration and Comfort" by Deborah Bell

God can Handle It

I an the vine, he are the branches: He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do nothing.   John 15:5

I tried to do it on my own...I tried to work it out
I knew that God could handle it (with just a little doubt)
I was closer with each step I took...new hope each day arose
But when I'd near the end it seemed the book would quickly close.

From my Lord these words then came...My Child...just move aside
I heard your prayer...now here I am but both My hands are tied
Yes...I will give all things you ask...just ask in faith and believe
Then do your part...and step aside...do not My Spirit grieve
You ask but still continue on so what am I to do
I cannot work a mighty work until your work is through

So...I laid aside my selfish will and moved out of the way
I left it in God's loving hands and left it there to stay
He intervened so lovingly with timing and with skill
I laid my crown down at His feet...and yielded to His will....

Let us pray:
Thank you God for loving us and for always listening to us. All we must do is to let go and let you take care of us by believing in faith and the Holy Spirit to see us through! Keep all of your children in your loving arms and bless them all!
Amen

Melanie Herr

Devotional 8-5-16

SISTERLY ADVICE 

“This is the world today.”  Mass attacks, Terror Attacks, Killing policemen, Killing the innocent, Black Lives Matter, White lives matter, All lives matter, foul language in politics…….Enough!   Enough!  I hurt!  Stop it! And it continues….I cannot accept it, I will not accept it!  And it continues….I hurt!  I hurt!  What can I do?  What can I do?  I expressed this in my Sunday school last week. Every day and every night when turning on the news, there it is again! Some say turn off the news. That did not help.

I have a sister who is younger than me. If you have one of them, you know sisters. Sometimes when talking with your sister, one is thinking ahead of what to say next and not really concentrating on listening. So I was expressing my pain with the world and how I was hurting, when all of a sudden, I found myself really listening. She said, “Take yourself out of the picture, quit letting it be about you.” Think of the victims and their pain.  Pray to God to help them deal with their pain and sorrow.  Prayer can be a most powerful resource for them and the world.  Ask God to help THEM and not YOU. My little sister had definitely judged me and hit the nail on the head. I do not take sister criticism well but I finally saw what I was doing to myself.  So now I pledge to what a good Christian should do----Pray for God’s healing power for the victims of all the chaos that is happening in this country and world.

Today’s sermon by Rev. Deane was about Mary and Martha.  Martha was so concerned about food preparation and was upset with Mary’s not helping her that she complained to Jesus about it. Jesus told her that Mary had chosen best to listen to Him.  I think my sister told me that to quit complaining and Let God handle it. Sisterly advice that struck home.

Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, Help us to keep in mind that prayer can be most powerful, especially when we consider others more than ourselves.     Amen  

Carolee Brown

Devotional 7/29/16

One of my favorite devotional books, given to me by a dear friend, is JESUS CALLING: ENJOYING PEACE IN HIS PRESENCE. It’s a beautiful little book of daily devotions written by missionary Sarah Young. Her devotional writing, written as if Jesus himself is speaking, is especially meaningful—a  wonderful way to begin your morning. More often than not, He speaks about just what seems to be happening in my life on any given day. It’s amazing how that happens sometimes! I bet it’s happened to you, too!

In the following devotion taken from the book, Jesus speaks about what He calls the golden cord of hope.

ROMANS 12: 12  Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

“HOPE is a golden cord connecting you to heaven. This cord helps you hold your head up high, even when multiple trials are buffeting you. I never leave your side, and I never let go of your hand. But without the cord of hope, your head may slump and your feet may shuffle as you journey uphill with Me. Hope lifts your perspective from your weary feet to the glorious view you can see from the high road. You are reminded that the road we’re traveling together is ultimately a highway to heaven. When you consider this radiant destination, the roughness or smoothness of the road ahead becomes much less significant. I am training you to hold in your heart a dual focus: My continued Presence and the hope of heaven.”

Sarah Young has a degree in philosophy from Wellesley and holds graduate degrees in psychology/ counseling from Tufts, Georgia State, and Covenant Seminary. She and her husband travel widely in their missionary work.

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to strengthen your relationship with Christ, you will find it in this special book of daily devotions.

Diane Feaganes

Devotional 7-22-16

How often we take everyday things for granted. At least, I find that I do. Things like streets not lined with mud, a creek that stays within its banks, a house without water in the basement. Yes, you know of which I speak! In other words, the recent tremendous rainfall which caused creeks to overflow, houses to be flooded and even the loss of life.

 

Nevertheless most of us were blessed by God's goodness and did not experience these dire consequences following Nature's fury. As I think of things I take for granted, how happy I was following the epic rainstorm to find a Captain from the Huntington Fire Department knocking  on my door to see if I wanted to move to a drier and safer location. And also to know that not only the Huntington Fire Department but also the Huntington Police Department  was patrolling the area of the flood to help wherever needed and to prevent criminal  activities. Our local emergency services are without equal.  Whenever you have the opportunity, let them know how much your appreciate them. 

 

Not least of all I am thankful for neighbors who offer assistance. I'm reminded of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:29-37). What a lesson for each one of us. May God help us to see where we can be a good neighbor. 

 

Jean Dean

Devotional 7-15-16

Read Psalm 82

In this psalm, the writer calls out to “defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed. Rescue the weak and needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”

As people of faith, we are called to action!  But- how can we respond?

Today’s culture touts material gain, personal achievement and upward mobility as the standard to be measured.  Society tends to block our vision when it comes to the weak and the poor!  There are programs out there to help “these” people.

As the psalmist suggests, even thousands of years ago, wicked people used and abused those who are disadvantaged.  He was reminding the people of Israel of their moral and spiritual obligation to protect the oppressed.

This scripture reminds us today that our faith comes with work to do.  God uses us to do his will here on Earth. So- when politicians cut funding for the poor/needy/hungry we must stand up and let our voice be heard! At work, in our neighborhoods and our social circles we need to be alert to actions that come at the cost of others. 

Jesus Christ ministry was based on this: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and love your neighbor as yourself.  As we await that house not built with hands but eternal to the heavens- may we strive to protect those in need.

  

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, forgive us for our materialism and continue to remind us that as your servant we need to protect and defend those who can not protect themselves.  Thank you for all that you have given us and may we respond with love to others as Jesus did.  In your name we pray.  Amen.

Marv Jones

Devotional 7-10-16

Living Vicariously vs. Skin in the Game

"I wish I could do that.” "I wish I could go there." If I had a nickel for each and every time I've said that I would look like Scrooge McDuck pushing a wheelbarrow full of coins > there would be MANY. We are offered a lot of opportunity in these modern times to live vicariously through other people's adventures: FaceBook, Instagram, Twitter and the like. We read their journals and thumb through their pictures and say, "I wish I could do that." 

Beginning July 2nd we have been deep in the throes of the Tour de France. The Tour is the absolute ultimate biker's event. This year the Grand Depart was hosted in the La Manche region in northwest France. Before Stage 1 was complete, the riders would pass by the stunningly beautiful abbey, Mont Saint Michel.  Helicopters carrying commentators flew above and around the bikes and flashed scenes of incredible architecture, history and topography. I am a casual cyclist. As one who occasionally turns the pedals, I sit in my easy chair, watching the race and saying, "I wish I could do that." I live vicariously through the riders who are actually there. Well, heck. That's no good. I will NEVER ride in the Tour de France. Does that mean I should ONLY watch and wish? It does not. I climb on my bike and (hopefully) with some friends, take off along the roads of our wonderful Tri-State area. Along with the great country bi-ways, the smell of newly cut grass and the fresh air - I get to experience flat tires, pot holes and dogs dead set on chewing the pedals off my bike. But I've got skin in the game.

50 miles not 100+. 20mph not 45. Fitness and pleasure of the ride; not the yellow, green or polka dot jersey. Skin in the game!

Parts of our state were recently ravaged by flooding. Before and after photos placed side by side leave us in a condition of un-belief. That can't possibly be the same place. I have, as many have, been moved by all of pictures on TV of people who have poured into the area to help. We watch the stories and say, "I wish I could do that." Well, here's your chance. These folks need prayer - no doubt. But we need not sit in front of the television and live vicariously though those helpers we watch. Pope Francis is quoted as saying, "You pray for the hungry. Then you feed them. That's how prayer works." Can we substitute (for a brief moment anyway) 'hungry' for 'those affected by flooding'? Maybe you can't go to Clay or Clendenin or Rainelle and muck out a house or remove debris. But you can...shop for cleaning supplies, pack a flood bucket, send a meal, take out your check book. Put some skin in the game.

I have been moved by the stories of those that have been the hands and feet of Christ. Groups from my home church have gone to work. I have seen contributions arrive from all over the country. Physical supplies from neighboring states. Monetary gifts from as far as the west coast. Many with notes; praying for WV. First you pray for the flooded. Then you help them.  That's how prayer works. 

Jesus moved from  town to town with his friends. He prayed and taught and healed. A pretty good gig - right? Luke, chapter 9 tells us of the moment when Jesus 'turned his face towards Jerusalem'.  He knew that a journey into that town was not going to be all knuckle bumps and high fives. Self sacrifice would be the order of the day. God's plan required skin in the game.

Take a glance around your house. Look at all of the things that represent your life and have deep meaning...now imagine that they are underwater. Say a pray and put some skin in the game.

Steve Matthews

Devotional 7-1-16

The woman

Ninety, if she was a day

Stood on her porch. 

The trash on the sidewalk embarrassed her

but what could she do?

As she watched, 

a man with a garbage bag

walked into her yard

and started clearing away the mess.

At her look of puzzlement,

he said, "I'm here to help.

I'm from the church."

Greater things have yet to come

and greater things are still to be done

in the city.

There is no God like our God.

The father sat with his son

on the bench outside the principal's office.

The teenager had been caught

His locker yielding pills.

The father's heart was broken.

The son's future hung in the balance.

Neither knew what to do.

Except pray.

Greater things have yet to come

and greater things are still to be done

in the city.

There is no God like our God.

The child hid in the backyard

Trying to be invisible.

She hurt, and she knew worse was coming.

If he found her.

If he saw her.

The sound near the tree startled her,

She didn't trust the voice of the neighbor,

but to the neighbor, she wasn't invisible.

She took her hand, 

and they went in the neighbor's house.

The kind woman called someone

and told her she would be safe.

Greater things have yet to come

and greater things are still to be done

in the city.

There is no God like our God.

Quote from God of This City (Chris Tomlin)

Kim Matthews

Devotional 6-24-16

The following devotion is not of my thoughts and words but  of my belief.
From Mountain Prayers - A Vacation for Your Soul,  Honor Books.

( Imagine you are at a cabin in our beautiful and contentment mountains of West Virginia.)

"True Contentment"

 

As night closes in, you step onto the deck of your cabin and gaze at the brilliant sliver of moon.  Darkness surrounds you.  Stars, like shimmering crystals, light up the sky.  A cool breeze flowing down from the mountain kisses your hair and skin.  The world once again is peaceful and quiet--content.

What a contrast to things back home---everyone pushing for bigger, better, and more.  But as you examine the vast canopy above your head, you realize a simple truth; real beauty, real value, real life, is often covered up by city lights.  The never ending advertisements urging you to buy this and eat that.  The constant pressure to be like those around you, to provide for your children the things others are providing.  The push to achieve more, make more, gain a higher position.  These are all loud and unnaturally bright, keeping your eyes from seeing the stars sparkling overhead.

  

Fortunately, the place has given you the opportunity to consider what you really have, what you really want, who you really are.  It has succeeded in screening out the noise and the distractions so that you can see 

clearly.

You will never be happy chasing after the things of this world.  God has placed a desire for eternal things in your heart and it will always be there deep inside, waiting to be discovered when the distractions have  been removed.  As you leave this wonderful place and travel back to your home in the city, don't forget the lesson you learned tonight.  The temporary, materialistic things of this world are only amusements. They cannot bring you true and lasting happiness.  They cannot bring you contentment.  Only God can do that.

Let us pray:  Heavenly Father, even here I close my eyes in prayer. I can see the precious things you have provided for me--love, courage, peace, family, friends, and most of  all, personal relationship with you.   When the things of this world begin to press in on me, demanding my attention, give me a nudge and I'll return to this quiet place where I know the meaning of contentment.  Amen
 

Kay Lewis

Devotional 6-10-16

CARING AND SERVING

In John 13:4-5 are found these words:  “So he got up from the supper table, set aside his robe, and put on an apron.  Then He poured water into a basin and began to wash the feet of the disciples, drying them with his apron.” (The Message)

In the New International Version and many other versions it says he wrapped a towel around his waist, but I like the image from the Message of an apron.  Aprons were a common piece of apparel for my grandmother and she was a wonderful example of a caring servant.  She never took her apron off while she was at home unless she entertained company in the ‘front’ room. Her aprons served as splash collectors, pot holders, egg carriers and wash cloths. She dried our tears with a tissue she always kept in the pocket and let us borrow an apron to “help” knead the bread dough. I never saw her use it to wash or dry feet but I might have been away that day.

Her kind of service was quiet and loving.  She wasn’t boastful or attention seeking.  She fed her neighbors with the bounty from my grandfather’s garden, worked tirelessly on many church projects and served as a caregiver to many in the community who lacked other resources. And she passed on this gentle steady approach of serving others to all of her 9 grandchildren and countless others.

I recently (although I’ve been told it’s been around for a while) read a story of how an ethics professor at Princeton Seminary asked for volunteers for an extra assignment. About half the class met him at the library to receive their assignments. The professor divided the students into three groups of five each.

He gave the first group envelopes telling them to proceed immediately across campus to Stewart Hall. He told them that they had 15 minutes and if they didn't arrive on time, it would affect their grade. A minute or two later, he handed out envelopes to five others. They were also to go over to Stewart Hall, but they had 45 minutes. The third group had three hours to get to Stewart Hall.

The students weren't aware of it, but the professor had arranged for three drama students to meet them along the way. Close to the beginning of their walk, one of the drama students had his hands on his head and was moaning aloud as if in great pain. About half way to Stewart Hall, on the steps of the chapel, the seminary students passed a man who was lying face down as if unconscious. Finally, on the steps of Stewart Hall, the third drama student was acting out a seizure.

In the first group of students, those who had only 15 minutes to get across campus, no one stopped to help. In the second group, two students stopped to help. In the last group, the one that had three hours for their assignment, all of the students stopped to help at least one person. The professor had clearly shown these seminarians that “hurry” gets in the way of caring.

I don’t know how many extra points were given for participation or if the final exam was on the Parable of the Good Samaritan, but this story certainly shows us that our daily life sometimes gets in the way of our calling to be a servant.  Sometimes our busy schedules keep us from noticing when someone needs a hand-up.

So I challenge you to find a way to don your aprons and be on the lookout for ways to care for others.  Sometimes it might be a random act of kindness – like allowing someone to go ahead of you in line or picking up an item that someone has dropped.  Or other times it might be some activity that you plan ahead of time, like serving at the Food Pantry or Common Grounds. Maybe you are called to “Pay it Forward” in some way or to send a card or make a phone call.  Listen for the call to service and God will bless the care you have shared.

Dear God of the lonely, the poor and the needy, we are sorry when we have let busyness get in the way of our service to you.  Please forgive us for our failings and guide us to reset our priorities to include your plan for our days.  Help us to put on our aprons to care for your children whoever they may be. AMEN.

Chyrl Budd

Devotional 6-2-16

Please read Psalm 146:3-8

Oh, what great friends we have! Have you ever thought about your friends? How many true friends can you have? There are the friends or classmates you had when you were in elementary school clear through high school. Some were closer to you than others, many memories were shared during those years. After high school graduation most everyone went their separate ways; to college, to vocational schools, and so on. Many got married, some to high school sweet hearts, had families, divorced, and worked at their vocations for 30 plus years, then retirement. A long with all those years there are health issues and sometimes loss of a spouse, a parent, or a child, which is difficult to cope with.

Growing up in a small town in southern Ohio, this was what our life was like. Most classmates left Gallipolis to further our careers but we left our hearts there. My graduation class of 1967 at Gallia Academy High School was the typical class as described above.

Two years ago after Caryl had retired and moved back to Athens, Ohio where Sonja already lived. Shortly after, two other classmates discovered they had breast cancer, a day a part and had surgery the same week. Caryl and Sonja wanted to “do something” to comfort them. So they invited those in our class to come to a Blanket making party to make the felt cut and tie blankets to give to classmates and to the cancer center at Holzer Hospital, in Gallipolis.

These blankets have been given to classmates, family, friends and cancer patients to show the Love, Hope and Comfort to the recipient. It is a reminder that they are not alone because everyone has special friend, Jesus Christ. God is the hope and the help of the needy, Jesus affirms his concern for the poor and afflicted. He does not separate the social and spiritual needs of people but attends to both. While God is the hope of the needy, we are his instrument to help here on earth.

We have been meeting once a month for over 2 years and have 12-15 members who make the blankets. Other classmates send love donations to keep this project funded.

This past April, ten of the blanket ladies went on a trip to Arizona to visit a classmate and to meet a wonderful new friend who we made a blanket for that had breast cancer and lost her husband right after she was diagnosed. We had a wonderful time and came back closer friends than before the trip. We are a close knit class who is very supportive of this project and our friendships. We are all looking forward to our 50^th class reunion in 2017!

We are all friends who share the Love and Concern for others through the “Best Friend” anyone could have, Jesus—we will never be alone because He will always be with us!

Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Thank you for all you do for us, show us the way to show others who Jesus really is, someone who loves us and will always be there for us. Help us to continue to love and keep Jesus as our friend by showing others his love. What a friend we have in Jesus!

Amen
Melanie Herr

Devotional 5-20-16

Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
    do not depend on your own understanding.
Seek his will in all you do,
    and he will show you which path to take.
Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom.
    Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil.
Then you will have healing for your body
    and strength for your bones.
Proverbs 3: 5-8

A year ago I broke a bone in my ankle and had to have a rod and pins implanted to repair it. With much gratitude to a skilled surgeon, dedicated physical therapists, friends and family members who helped me tremendously, and the prayers of so many, I'm happy to report it has healed completely. I was out of circulation for about 2 months and had a good lesson in humility when I realized the world went right on turning without my participation!

I taught first grade in Masontown, WV, 1972-74. One of my students sent me a yearly Christmas card and our relationship became stronger with the advent of the Internet. I just about burst with pride several years ago when she was named Teacher of the Year for Preston County.

With her permission, I want to share her Facebook post from this week:

Two years ago today, I heard only four words. . .words that would forever change my life. “You do have cancer!”

A repeat mammogram, a biopsy, four surgeries, 31 radiation treatments, frequent doctor visits, numerous mammograms and sonograms, and 731 days later ~ I am still in remission!

It was during this time that I finally understood and knew how to put God first in my life! A cancer diagnosis is devastating, but being able to lay your fears at God’s feet helped ease the burden. I knew, without a doubt, that I would be healed. I believe that cancer never wins; you are always healed! Healing can come here on Earth or healing can come when you arrive in Heaven; either way it’s a WIN/WIN situation! The only requirement is to believe in the One True King!

So thankful to have the opportunity to encourage friends facing cancer, to live life with my soul-mate, to enjoy every moment with my precious girls, to spend time with my parents and family, and most importantly. . .continue to build my relationship with my Savior!

Today is the first day of the rest of your life; what are YOU going to do with it? -- Corrine Clark

Anita Farrell

Devotional 5-13-16

Read Acts 2:1-21 and John 14:16-26

We as Christians celebrate Pentecost as the beginning of the Christian Church, the day in which, as it says in Acts 2:2,4:

And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting.    All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.

The Jewish people had all come to gather to celebrate Shavout (The giving of the Law to Moses) so there would be many people from various regions coming together for this celebration, all with different languages.  Once the Holy Spirit had filled them, they began to speak in their native tongue, but each could understand the other. This was unifying the followers of Jesus into one body.  Acts 2:6-11 says:

The crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each. Amazed and astonished, they asked, "Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? Parthians, Medes, Elamites, and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabs--in our own languages we hear them speaking about God's deeds of power.

What does this tell us for today? There maybe many divisions among us, such as; race, culture, denominations, language and geographical boundaries.  We are all Christians, we have one God and one guide in Jesus Christ.  We should all be striving to change those things in the world that create; injustice, intolerance, hate, poverty, inequality, non-acceptance and many more.  Let us all learn to remove these barriers to be the CHURCH that God created through his Son Jesus Christ.
Let the Holy Spirit fill us with the fire to change our world!!! Let this be your prayer.

God Bless all!!!!

Fred Herr

Devotional 5-6-16

It is way too easy to become complacent about our lives. As I read and listen to Bible stories, I can identify with different characters. Putting myself in the story makes it more personal. I’m not just reading a nice story, I’m living it. When i’m being honest with myself I often identify with the wrong person in the story.

I would like to think of myself as Mary sitting at Jesus’ feet. In truth, I’m really more like Martha worrying about making Jesus’ visit perfect. (Luke 10: 38-42) When Jesus tried to tell the disciples what the future held for him, Peter assured Jesus that “This shall never happen to you!” (Mathew 16: 22) I would be Peter comforting a friend, but having no earthly idea what I was talking about--talking when I should be listening. I would be Peter denying Jesus not once, not twice, but  three times! (Luke 22: 54-64) Yes, I could be Peter,  terrified that what was happening to Jesus would happen to me.

I could go on and on. The point is that in reading and hearing these stories I can see areas in my own life that need work. I hear Him say to me, as He said to Martha, “You are worried about many things, but only one is needed. Mary has chosen the better, and it will not be taken from her.” (Luke 10:41) I remember His rebuke of Peter, telling him to, “Get behind me Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of man.” (Mathew 16: 23)

The good news is Jesus loved and forgave each of them, even as he corrected them. He does the same for each of us.

Margaret Williams

Devotional 4-29-16

The Gift of the Holy Spirit

Lectionary Readings for this week:  Acts 16: 9-15; Psalm 67; Rev 21:10, 22-22:5; John 14:23-29

“I’m telling you these things while I’m still living with you.  The Friend, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send at my request will make everything plain to you.  He will remind you of all the things I have told you.  I’m leaving you well and whole.  That’s my parting gift to you.  Peace.  I don’t leave you the way you’re used to being left—feeling abandoned, bereft.  So don’t be upset.  Don’t be distraught.”

John 14: 25-27 from The Message

It has been one month since the miracle of Easter.  Our Lord sacrificed his life on the cross, overcame death and rose victorious from the grave.  What a story!!! What a gift of matchless, overwhelming love!!

However, have you (like me) lost some of the joy related to the Easter events??? Have you returned to your usual daily activities, challenges and trials, without thinking again of the impact that Easter has made on your life??? What do our words and actions show?  Are we living as evidence of such a special love?? Have we made it a priority to include prayer, service, worship and praise in our daily walk? Do we regularly ask the Holy Spirit for guidance and direction??

Jesus tried to prepare his disciples for the aftermath of his leaving so that the disciples would not dissolve and scatter.  But even they had great difficulty in understanding and believing the Easter events in spite of their own first-hand accounts. Possibly one of the least believable concepts in his teaching was that of the Holy Spirit. Jesus tried to teach the disciples about this special friend long before the events of Holy Week.  Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would come as a friend and would be his parting gift—Peace.  This Peace promises that we are not alone or abandoned.  We seem to have trouble understanding how our relationship with the Holy Spirit works and what we are to do about it.

I once read a story about a little boy who was trying to understand the Sunday school lesson about the Holy Spirit and decided to talk with his father:

 “Daddy, how can I believe in the Holy Spirit when I have never seen Him?” asked Jimmy. “I’ll show you how,” said his father, who was an electrician. Later Jimmy went with his father to the power plant where Jimmy was shown the generators. “This is where the power comes from to heat our stove and to give us light. We cannot see the power, but it is in that machine and in the power lines,” said the father. “I believe in electricity,” said Jimmy. “Of course you do,” said his father, “but you don’t believe in it because you see it. You believe in it because you see what it can do. Likewise, you can believe in the Holy Spirit because you can see what He does in people’s lives when they are surrendered to Christ and possess His power.”

This explanation makes the concept a little easier to understand but doesn’t guarantee that I make use of the Holy Spirit’s power. I have had the benefit of multiple repetitions of the Easter story and yet I am so guilty of plunging ahead with my own plans, of ignoring the urgings of the Holy Spirit and omitting acts that would be pleasing to God.  I do understand, but my words and actions do not always show the world that I am a believer.  The Holy Spirit is sent by God to bring us peace, but we have not made use of it to guide and change our lives. Would others know that I am a Christian just by my words and actions????

 Please join me in prayer to ask God to change both our hearts and our words and actions to implement His will in the world today:

Dear Loving God,  Forgive us for our sins and failings.  Search us, prune our unusable parts and remake us for the purpose of serving you more completely and with greater love. As the words of the hymn convey:   Spirit of the Living God, fall afresh on me. Melt me, Mold me, Fill Me and Use Me. (Words and Music by Daniel Iverson #393 UM Hymnal)  Remind us to request the guidance that will help us follow your path and not our own. AMEN.

Chyrl Budd