Devotional 6-5-20

“God is Calling—Anyone Listening???”

Lectionary Readings: Genesis1: 1--2: 4; Psalm 8; 2Corinthians 13: 11-13; Matthew 28: 16-30.
“God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him male and female he created them.  God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number;” Genesis 1: 27-28a.
Sunday, June 7^th is Trinity Sunday and the lectionary readings for this week remind us of the three persons of God:  Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  The Genesis passage provides images of God, Our Creator.  Psalm 8 echoes God the Creator and adds God the All Powerful: “Lord how majestic is your name in all the earth.” Matthew 28 contains the Great Commission of Jesus “to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”   2 Corinthians highlights the Three in One: “the amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God and the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.” 
This marvelous trio is unique, and often difficult to comprehend:  How could they be separate and yet all one.  I will leave the theological discussion of “how” and “why”, etc. to more learned minds to explain.  All I need to focus on is that the essence and the being of the Trinity is LOVE.  God is LOVE!  Jesus is LOVE!  The Holy Spirit is LOVE!  And just a few chapters earlier in Matthew 22, Jesus answers a question with: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.  This is the first and greatest commandment.  And the second is like it: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

2020 been a challenging year so far:  full of fear, conflict, and unrest. We are faced with new and uncertain health, economic, religious, financial, and political issues and concerns.  It seems that many have not taken the commandments of Jesus to our hearts with the depth needed to change actions.  We have not learned the lessons of our Sunday School teachers, our pastors and religious leaders and scholars. We also have not fully learned the lessons of our history regarding how to treat all others with kindness, compassion, understanding, fairness and love.

I have lived a quiet, fairly naïve life. I didn’t really know I lived a privileged life, but it must be true. I had two parents who demonstrated love and compassion.  I have been affiliated with wonderful role models and friends as I have grown and matured, worked and worshiped. I have not known the fear and oppression that many in our country describe.  But I am aware that it is there.  I miss volunteering at Ebenezer because I want to make a difference in the lives of the children who attend the programs there.  I have seen their fear, hurt, mistrust and observed many actions that signal the distress that they experience.  One little girl has so much anger that she is constantly in trouble, disrupts games and craft time and pushes others away.  She has built up a protective wall that is hard to penetrate.  I have no idea of her home life and don’t need to know.  But it takes a lot of extra energy to show her love instead of frustration and negativity.  I don’t always say or do the right thing and have to apologize or spend extra time with her the next week.  She is a child of God, worthy of His Love and my time and attention.  God is calling us in these times. I’m not always sure of the specifics, but I am sure He is calling us to surround others with love and care; to do whatever we can to show with our actions that there are loving ways to behave.  The great commandments are not suggestions or recommendations, they are God’s expectations for our lives.  Episcopal Bishop Michael Curry said this week that the opposite of love is not hate, but selfishness.  When we do not first love God and others as ourselves, we are being primarily selfish beings.  May our actions grow more loving each day!!!

Dear Father, forgive us as we have not always been effective stewards of your creation.  My Jesus, thank you for inspiring the peaceful demonstrations and walks taking place in our city and state.  But we are all worried about the violence and chaos in other places. You have called us to seek peace and justice and we have not found a way to make them a priority.  Oh, Holy Spirit come to us.  Rain down on us with your healing power, comfort and care.  Grant us insight to guide our actions and strength to persevere in your calling. Help us to listen with our whole being and heed your direction. AMEN.

Chyrl Budd

Devotional 4-9-20

Lectionary Readings:  Exodus 12: 1-14; Psalm 116; 1 Corinthians 11: 23-26; John 13: 1-17, 31b-35.

“A new command I give you:  Love one another.  As I have loved you, so you must love one another.  By this all men will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.” John 13: 34-35.

 In the passage from John’s gospel, the disciples were gathered with Jesus to celebrate a Passover meal.  This was a traditional meal celebrated according to the directions God gave to Moses and the Israelites on the night the angel of death would pass over to save their children.  They should be “ready to go” as they ate, not really knowing that they would be leaving Egypt the next morning. None of the disciples knew what the next 24 hours would hold for them and for Jesus after this meal either. However, the evening gathering became a continuation of the lessons Jesus was trying to impart to all of his disciples. One of the first lessons of that evening was an act of Agape love.  Jesus showed the disciples that all are called to become servants to show their love as he did when he washed their feet.

The next lesson is found in the gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke.  Paul also described the meal of bread and wine in remembrance of Jesus’ life as he wrote to the Corinthians.  We know this meal of remembrance as Holy Communion where the bread of life and the cup of salvation are shared with the community.  Jesus asks us to remember that his body and blood were given as a sacrifice for our sins. What an extravagant, marvelous, matchless gift of love.

The third lesson of that evening was described in the gospel of John as a new commandment: to love one another as He loved us.  Everything Jesus said and did in his entire ministry was to teach us to love one another using his own life as the example.  He showed with his actions how to become the giver of love, the servant who puts others first, the grantor of mercy shown to all who ask—even in the hour of his own death. His grace is radical and overwhelming!  We could never be worthy on our own merits and we will never find this depth of love from any other source.
           
In this time of crisis and physical separation from one another, we will not be able to participate in the sacrament of holy communion as usual on Holy Thursday.  We cannot physically wash one another’s feet or do any other acts of Agape that require us to touch, hug or gather in close contact.  That does not mean that we are not spreading and sharing love with one another. We can still be the Church!  Start with prayer and meditation to connect with God.  Ask to be filled with a renewed spirit of love, direction and service. Next find some ways to share love that show you are grateful, thankful, faithful, thoughtful or meaningful. Be “full” of love as you proceed.  It could be a simple gift of some wipes in the mailbox for the mailman or sending cards to those in a health care facility like Woodlands. Make loving others a way of life.  Practice tolerance, patience, gentleness, etc., and share the LOVE!! It won’t be easy but Jesus called us to this radical way of loving others by his example!!!

Our church leaders and staff are doing all they can to maintain communication and support.  We are encouraged to check in with neighbors, family members and Sunday school class members, our community elders and friends to share needs and concerns. Even electronic forms of communication help us to stay connected and share hope and humor. Those essential workers who continue to provide care, deliver our food, measure our prescriptions, etc., deserve our thanks and appreciation.  We can be supportive of those in our communities on the front lines with our donations and patronage when allowed. We can spread the love of Jesus so well that all will know that we too are his disciples.  We do not have to be in a building to show to others that We are the Church.  Loving becomes a habit too beautiful to give up!

Oh God, Loving Creator: we thank you for loving us so wondrously. We are astounded and overwhelmed by your grace and mercy.  Help us to surrender to your loving ways daily so that we might be your hands and feet in this chaotic world. AMEN

Chyrl Budd

Devotional 11-15-19

The Song of a Baby's Cry

Lectionary Readings:  Isaiah 12; Isaiah 65: 17-25; Psalm 118; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17; Luke 20: 27-38     “Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid.  The Lord is my strength and my song, he has become my salvation.” Isaiah 12: 2

I have a framed message in my living room that says: “God gave us music so we could pray without words.”  It is the end-part of an anonymous quote that starts with “Bach gave us God’s word; Mozart gave us God’s laughter; and Beethoven gave us God’s fire.” Music is a magnificent means of communication.  Most of us have chosen one or more genres that we enjoy and probably a list of examples that make a “favorites list”.   God created us in his image, so I joyfully jump to the conclusion that God loves music also.  I believe He gave us music to communicate with each other and with Him.

Some have speculated that music actually begins in the womb.  The rhythm of the mother’s heart, all of mom’s internal bodily noises, as well as the music of the fluid the baby moves in supply melodies to the developing baby’s brain.  Then after birth, the loving messages of those who cuddle and attempt to soothe the baby provide the first external notes.

Babies, however, cannot respond in kind (at least at first).  Babies mainly communicate with crying. The baby cries for food, warmth, dryness, relief of gas, fear, loneliness, etc.  Crying does not initially compare favorably to a definition of a song.  Many a care giver has been frustrated by the cries of a baby--especially when it seems that after multiple attempts to determine the cause of the cry, the baby is not soothed.  And yet, the song of crying signifies life—the child is sending out messages.

I have really enjoyed my volunteer hours at Lily’s Place and am thrilled when asked to cuddle one of these special little ones.  I am not always successful in the game of “soothe the baby to sleep” though.  Recently we’ve cared for a special one who frustrated many of his care givers.  He cried when he was being fed and therefore didn’t always eat his full measure, he cried when he was swaddled, and when he was unbound, cried when he was both wet and dry, cried when he was rocked and when he was still, cried when left alone and when he received attention. He was prayed for, sung to, loved, cuddled, rocked and snuggled. It seems nothing soothed him—at least for any length of time.  What was he trying to communicate?  What was he saying with his cries?

The baby’s cries were frustrating but not life threatening. But maybe the cries symbolize something else, like the collective cries of all those in pain or who grieve.  Perhaps they are the messages of all who are lonely and afraid.  They could also be a joyful statement: “Look, I’m alive in spite of my rough beginning and I want everyone to know it.”  He was communicating with us and we were trying to listen to catch his meaning. His song was not the one we expected, but it was his message.  What can this baby teach us about our relationship with God?

We are often too busy with our own agenda to listen for God’s message.  We fill our own silence with white noise and insignificant background sound to feel less alone and isolated. When we seek Him or respond, our song often sounds flat and out of rhythm because we have not truly listened to God.  God tells us to not be afraid, that He is with us.  However, God’s message to us is not always what we expect as He speaks to us in many voices and uses words, music, nature, silence, etc.. When we ignore His message we miss the chance to sing a new song that allows God to become our salvation and strength.

“I love you, Lord, and I lift my voice to worship you, O my soul rejoice!
 Take joy, my King in what you hear; May it be a sweet, sweet sound in your ear.”
                                                                                                            Laurie Klein (the Faith We Sing)

Chyrl Budd

Devotional 9-20-19

Prayers for Rulers
 

 Lectionary Readings:  Jeremiah 8: 18- 9: 1; Psalm 79; 1 Timothy 2: 1-7; Luke 16: 1-13.
“The first thing I want you to do is pray.  Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know.  Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply in humble contemplation.  This is the way our Savior God wants us to live.  He wants not only us but EVERYONE saved, you know, everyone to get to know the truth we’ve learned:  that there is one God, and one Mediator between God and us—Jesus, who offered himself in exchange for everyone held captive by sin, to set them all free.” 1 Timothy 2: 1-5. (The Message)

Throughout the years, many authors have provided instruction and guidance on the methods and mechanics of prayer.  Still others have given witness to the saving and sustaining power of prayer. The gospels record Jesus’ instructions on prayer for his disciples and Paul provides instruction in many passages of his letters.  In this letter to the disciple Timothy, Paul urges Timothy to make prayer a priority and to include everyone including rulers in his prayers.  What??? I don’t know about you, but even though I know that praying for our governmental leaders is a good thing, I have a hard time putting them on my priority list.

However, in spite of rampant persecution and abuse of power and authority such as Paul was dealing with in the first century, he commanded Timothy to pray for governmental leaders.  In fact, throughout all the accounts of strife and warfare between countries, the church is always encouraged to pray for those who rule. No stipulations such as “only pray for the good leaders” were tacked on to the command.  Jesus said: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:44). Also, Peter said, “Fear God.  Honor the King/Emperor” (1 Peter 2:17).

How can we ignore the commands of Jesus, Peter and Paul???
Will you join me in making it a priority to pray for all rulers and leaders of governments? We may not know specifically what to pray for, but we can pray that God will guide decisions; that God will give directions to all who request it; that God will give each ruler insight, compassion, strength and love in all their dealings.

This passage in 1 Timothy repeats the foundation of Christ’s message:  that God’s grace and mercy are for everyone.  All are to be welcomed at the table and are to be included in the fellowship of believers.  Jesus’ sacrifice was for every person.  All are capable of receiving God in a personal relationship.  As believers, it is our responsibility to pray just as Paul describes “in every way we know and for everyone we know”.  We are not required to be or act perfectly-- we are only commanded to follow as best we can; to live as closely to God as possible; to share the love of Christ with all we meet.

Dear God, we come to you today asking for forgiveness.  We have not always followed your commandments.  In fact, we have been quite derelict at times.  Please help us to follow your teachings more completely and faithfully.  We ask that you be with our rulers and leaders today and every day.  Give them skill and compassion in dealing with their responsibilities and in making decisions.  Give them insight into the lives of those they are governing so that the best solutions and plans can be implemented.   Grant us all peace and the mercy of your love.  AMEN.

Chyrl Budd

Devotional 7-5-19

Prescription for Spiritual Healing

Lectionary Readings: 2 Kings 5:1-14; Psalm 30; Galatians 6:1-6 & 7-16; Luke 10: 1-11 & 16-20.

“Elisha sent a messenger to say to him (Naaman) “Go, wash yourself seven times in the Jordan and your flesh will be restored and you will be cleansed.” But Naaman went away angry and said, “I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call on the name of the Lord his God, wave his hand over the spot and cure me of my leprosy.”  2 Kings 5: 10-11

According to the scripture found in 2 Kings, Naaman was a commander of the army for the king of Aram.  He was a great man in the sight of his master and highly regarded because through him the Lord had given victory to Aram.  He was a valiant soldier, but he had leprosy.  He also had an idea that he deserved special treatment from those who were healers.

Have you been given instructions by your health care provider to complete a series of actions that were designed for your healing and then decided that you knew better and would modify or ignore the instructions???  We are truly blessed with a multitude of pharmacological preparations (drugs) designed to treat any number of diseases and problems. However, all drugs have possible side effects (even the lowly Aspirin) and there are no guarantees that a particular drug will work for every individual as it was intended.  Most drugs work in tandem with modifications of diet and activity and are prescribed together as a unit.  We tend to think that the drug is all we need, probably because changing diet and exercise involves a change of habit=lots of work!.  We now know that leprosy is caused by a bacterial infection and can be treated with antibiotics.  Naaman did not have access to antibiotics and had to rely on the treatment activities offered by Elisha.

In this passage from the Old Testament, we find that Naaman expected more from the prophet Elisha than just to go wash in the dirty waters of the Jordan.  He expected the miracle cure and the majesty of the curing process.  Washing in the Jordan without the personal exhortation of Elisha seemed too easy to actually provide a cure.  Naaman’s servants convinced him that if Elisha had told him to do some fantastic thing, he would have done that.  Why not complete this simple act to see if it would work?? He eventually washed in the dirty river Jordan seven times, his leprosy was healed and he returned to his homeland vowing to faithfully serve the one true God of Israel. Without the expected fanfare, Naaman was healed and changed physically, mentally and spiritually.

How often do we ignore the call from God to serve by doing a particular activity or series of actions?  How often do we modify God’s instructions to “do things our way”?? Paul tells us in Galatians that we “must not grow weary of doing good but continue to serve God to reap the reward of eternal life.”  When we sow seeds “our way” all we will reap is weeds. I have a hard time relinquishing control of any situation, but I know that when I surrender to the power of God, He will guide the process And the outcome.  My spiritual health as well as mental and physical health are wrapped together in His plan.  We have no idea if our actions are making a difference at any given time.  We can only offer our words and actions as our offering, asking God to control the situation.

Dear Loving and Forgiving Father, please continue to send us messages to guide and teach us.  Hear our prayers as we ask for your understanding and eternal patience as we learn these lessons again and again.  Thank you for your love and for always giving us another chance to change. Continue to call us to your service in planting the seeds of the kingdom. Help us to surrender daily so that we might serve you by sharing Your love through our words and actions.  AMEN

Chyrl Budd

Devotional 10-5-18

Prayers for a Friend

Lectionary Readings:  Job 23: 1-9, 16-17; Psalm 22: 1-15; Hebrews 4: 12-16; Mark 10: 17-31.

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.”  Matthew 7: 6-8

I’m not very proficient in memorizing Bible verses. However, the above passage is one of the exceptions.  I remember memorizing Ask/Seek/Knock in elementary school.  It was like the opening of a door and revealed the power of the Almighty to me. Little, insignificant me could go to God with a request and He would hear me.  For an Omnipotent Power to be responsive to a speck (me) in the sea of humans was a clue to the individual relationship that would develop. This passage has continued to point me to the importance of prayer for myself and for others. As we pray for ourselves and for others, we grow a little closer to God.

Life is not easy, fair or carefree.  We all have struggles, trials, challenges and heartaches.  Prayer is a primary key to dealing with all of the ups and downs of the journey.  Corrie Ten Boom asks “Is prayer your steering wheel or your spare tire?”  Do we pray first or as an after-thought?  The example Jesus set in his ministry was definitely to pray first.  He spent 40 days before beginning his ministry in prayer and fasting.  He prayed before calling the disciples, before healing, before sharing a meal, before offering his life as a sacrifice for us.

Perhaps the most satisfying part of my conversations with God is the chance to offer prayers for others who are in need.  I certainly have been the recipient of the uplifting and support of other’s prayers for me and my family.  This sharing of prayers for each other, our neighbors, friends, city, country and world help us to shoulder the burdens and challenges of life.  The JM choir will offer an anthem on this very topic soon.  The words of Mr. Choplin are very meaningful and the melody is beautiful, as well.   It reminded me of what a privilege it is to prayer for each other, to connect to God without worrying about personal gain or request. To pray for the welfare, comfort, sustenance or healing of another is probably the most unselfish we can be.  Here are some of the words of the anthem:

Sweet are the Prayers of a Friend by Pepper Choplin

Friends pray for healing, they pray revealing-- the heavy burdens of our souls.

They pray for courage, unfailing courage--asking God to make us whole.

Friends pray through troubles, pray through struggles-- when life seems to fall apart.

They pray us through grieving, always believing, God can heal the broken,

God can heal the broken heart-- God can heal.

O how sweet are the prayers, are the prayers that are offered up by a friend,

by a friend who calls, calling up to heaven-- calling, “Lord come down, come down and bless again.” Sweet are the prayers of a friend—for a friend.

Dear Father and Mother of us All:  We call on you to come to us again.  We ask that you make your presence know to all that need you.  Heal them of their hurts and pain and grief.  Allow us to be supportive and demonstrate Your care for them.  We seek your blessing to continue to serve one another by using our time, our resources and our gifts.  We seek a greater understanding of your Word and the purpose you have for our lives.  We knock on your heart, knowing that you have already answered our pleas to open the door, to help us understand and become your obedient child.  Guide us as we continue to learn to more faithfully serve you in our neighborhood and world.  Thank you, O merciful One, for hearing and answering our prayers.  AMEN.

Chyrl Budd

Devotional 8-10-18

“Ask for the Best” 

Lectionary Readings:  1Kings 2:10-12, 3:3-14; Psalm 111; Ephesians 5: 15-20; & John 6: 51-58

“At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon during the night in a dream, and God said, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.”  Solomon answered:.…So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong.”  1 Kings 3: 5, 9.

Wow! What a mighty God! What a fantastic dream!  Despite the information that Solomon’s request took place in a dream, we are told a few verses later that God granted Solomon’s request.  In addition to a wise and discerning heart, God also granted Solomon many riches, honor, and a long life.  The only stipulation required was for Solomon to walk in God’s ways and obey his statutes and commands just as David had done before him.  God wanted the very best for Solomon and he wants the best for us as well.  However, we don’t always ask for God’s best gifts. Are we missing something in our daily prayers and conversations with God???

I realize that Solomon had recently become king and was probably feeling the responsibilities of leadership that I will (thankfully) never experience.  But I think it was an extremely smart move on Solomon’s part to request wisdom/discernment.  He asked for the character trait that would give him what he needed most to become a great leader.  Do we ask God to mold our character so that we might do his bidding more effectively? Have I asked for all that God is willing to bestow?

Solomon was not a perfect man or leader, but he accomplished a great deal during his reign including building the magnificent Temple in Jerusalem.  Also according to Bible scholars, Solomon is credited with many of the wise sayings of the Book of Proverbs.  He lived a long life and was recognized as a wise and compassionate ruler—perhaps wiser than all the other kings of the earth (1 Kings 10: 23).  He accomplished all that he did because he continued to obey God and to worship Him as he had been commanded.

I find myself feeling a little jealous of Solomon. What does he have that I don’t?  I know, I know…you don’t have to list the ways our situations are different.  But what might God grant me if I asked for wisdom or some other character trait that would allow me to be of greater service to others? Have I asked for God’s “Best Gift” for me??   First of all, I know I could at least spend more time in conversation with God.  I need to listen more to the messages God is sending me.  I need to be more intentional and regular about daily prayer time.  And most of all, I need to surrender to God’s will and guidance.  Perhaps God has a new plan for each of us if we would only ask for his “Best Gift” for each of us and for God’s will to be done in our lives.

           “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

 Great God of Wisdom and Might, assist us to pursue a renewed commitment to follow your guidance and direction.  Grant us insight into the ways in which we can serve you more effectively and lovingly.  We thank you for the example of Solomon and all of the teachings and gifts you have provided.  Forgive us when we fail to be obedient and faithful to your will. AMEN.
Chyrl Budd

Devotional 6-22-18

I Cry for Help and You are There
 

Lectionary Readings:  2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27; Psalm 130; 2 Corinthians 8:7-15; Mark 5: 21-43

Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord; O Lord, hear my voice.  Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy.  If you, O Lord kept a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness; therefore you are feared.  I wait for the Lord, my soul waits and in his word I put my hope. My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning. Psalm 130: 1-6.

I have recently been cleaning out several files and boxes of mementoes in preparation to move to a new address in Huntington.  This has caused a rash of memories that I thought were tamped down and relegated to the basement of my mind.  Some memories are so joyful and bright with happiness that it has been easy to think of them again.  There were weddings and births, special events and sightseeing trips, visits with friends and family and even other times when we changed our address.  But there have also been reminders of some painful times—times of great loss and sorrow; trips to the emergency room and hospital stays; loss of precious family members and great fears for a future without their presence.

Although some of the memories were painful, they were nothing compared to the actual events.  I was able to relive those past events with the benefit and comfort that through each event and even through this present move, I have been surrounded and loved by a God who never left me, even when I thought He was silent.  The memories also allowed me to recall the host of family and friends who were by my side, anticipating needs and providing support and comfort.  I have been truly blessed and am so thankful that I have had such strength and support available to me.  Great is Thy Faithfulness, Lord Unto me!

The recent celebrity suicides have also been preying on my memories, reminding me of another suicide that directly changed my life 27 years ago.  With all the advances in medicine these days, we have not been able to prevent the incidence of suicide to any degree.  In fact, today the Herald Dispatch reported an increase in the number of suicides per year in WV.  Evidently, mental illness is still a topic that we have not talked enough about and not enough people have felt safe enough to ask for help/assistance.

The psalmist, David, felt the need to cry out to God, but also confirmed that his hope was found in God’s word.  In another psalm (121), David looks to the hills, and cries “where does my help come from?  Help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.  He watches over you and will not slumber nor sleep.”  God is definitely available, but it seems that fewer people are calling on God for that assistance. Do we need to do a better job of asking others how they are feeling? Do we need to practice more thoughtful listening instead of talking so much?  Do we need to try to look past the outer layers of a person to understand what is truly going on in their inner thoughts? Social media has connected us at lightning speed, but many feel even more disconnected and alone.  What can I do to help? 

I don’t have any answers, and I’m sorry if this post has been on the sad side.  But I hope that God will use this message to encourage someone to seek help before changing forever the lives of the family and friends that love them so much. We are all in need.  There is no problem or concern, that God cannot heal, bind up or provide strength for you.  We are His, He knows our name and he will not leave us without support and comfort.  There are no overnight fixes, no quick solutions because grief and loss, pain and struggle take a lot of hard and ongoing effort.  I don’t see anyone having an easy way: financial, emotional or otherwise.  But we do not walk through the valley alone.  So, take a baby step and talk to someone about how you feel.  Quit saying “I’m fine” if you are not. Allow someone to help you….

Dear God, we know that you are always With Us even when we cannot think or feel.  Please continue to guide us to those who need us and give us the words or the silence that is required for the situation. Be with all those who are hurting and struggling.  Help them to feel your loving arms of support in the midst of their pain. We thank you for your faithfulness, your overwhelming mercy and your extravagant love.  AMEN.

​Chyrl BuddNational Suicide Prevention Lifeline:  1-800-273-8255

Devotional 10-13-17

Tribute

Lectionary Readings:  Exodus 33:12-23; Psalm 99; Matthew 22: 15-22; 1 Thessalonians 1:  1-10.
Every time we think of you, we thank God for you.  Day and night, you’re in our prayers as we call to mind your work of faith; your labor of love, and your patience of hope in following our Master, Jesus Christ, before God our Father.  1 Thessalonians 1: 2-3 (The Message)

This devotion is not a typical one for me, but I hope you will indulge me and read it anyway. In the passage highlighted above, Paul, Silas and Timothy were writing to the church in Thessalonica and were praising their faithfulness and their acts of love and patience in following Christ. The whole passage speaks to the faithful servants living in this city, just like my friend, Al. I have been preoccupied with my memories of JMUMC’s past Minister of Music, Albert J. Zabel, III, since learning of his death last week.  He was a talented organist and a prolific composer/arranger of sacred music for the organ, hand-bells, other instruments and choral works for adults, teens and children.  I didn’t know that he had even written a book on how to move from employing piano skills to playing the organ (Practically Perfect Pedaling).

 As talented and gifted as he was, the qualities I most admired were his perseverance in serving God by using those talents and his steadfast faith in God.  He was a very humble person who did not seek the limelight.  He never called attention to the works that we performed that were his creations or arrangements.  Someone in the choir (Handbell or Sanctuary) would notice his name, sometimes only after we had practiced the work several times, but he never made that announcement.  His individual performances on the organ were primarily preludes/postludes and the occasional concert which was usually in coordination with other performers.  He willingly accompanied a host of choirs and singers throughout his life, always focusing on the performer and the music, and not himself.  He was dedicated to the rich tapestry of music that honored and glorified God.

I got to know Al “up close and personal” on the Summer Players Youth Tours between 1984 and 1991.  The first musical drama that I toured with was the newly written “Uniquely Yours”, a collaboration between Al and Trilby Jordan.  It was full of humor and real life about how teens can remain close to God and still express their unique qualities and gifts.  His musical score included a violin, flute, clarinet, French horn and hand bells, as well as some “special effects”.  The musical drama was so appropriate for the youth in our group, but Al’s talent seemed so effortless, we didn’t realize the depth of his gifts.

The message from this drama to all of us, was that God uses us as we are.  We don’t need to be anything other than who we already are. We are enough! God calls each of us and asks us to be faithful in following His guidance and to put His plan into action.  We all have a history of struggles and heartache; joys and mountain-top experiences also. But, we are never alone.  God is With Us throughout every struggle and rejoices with us in every joy.   God blessed our congregation and community with the talents of Al Zabel and we are all better for it.  He created, taught, served and cared for all those around him.  He inspired us through his music and through his entire life. He was faithful to God’s plan for him and did not seek adulation for his efforts.  May we all go and do likewise with the gifts God gives us. God asks us to spread the gospel, to sow the seeds…and He will take care of the rest.  Al was faithful to God’s direction in willingly sharing his God-given gifts with students, choirs, congregations and even those who have purchased his music who do not even know him.

Dear Almighty and Wonderful God: We thank you for the life and service of Al Zabel.  We know that his gifts came from you and he was faithful to use them to glorify your name.  Thank you for all that you have taught us through our association with him.  You bless us every day with angels and saints who appear in our lives as ordinary people, but have been sent by you to show us more clearly how we should live and care for one another.  We thank you for this glimpse of the eternal through the extraordinary life and music of Al Zabel.  AMEN                                                                                                                                                                  

Chyrl Budd

Devotional 7-7-17

Surrender
 

Lectionary Readings:  Genesis 24: 34-67; Psalm 45: 10-17; Psalm 72; Romans 7: 15-25; Matthew 11: 16-30
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”  Matthew 11: 25-30

Life is like a roller coaster – multiple ups and downs, twists and turns.  Sometimes there doesn’t seem to be any resting place or even a slower pace.  I knew life was going by quickly, but the world seems to be speeding out of control these days.  I make matters worse by trying to change each situation myself.  I try to push and pull through until I am hopelessly tangled in the mess:  Saying the wrong things;  Interfering when I should stand back;  Spreading my opinions and agenda, not the love of God.

God keeps reminding me, though, (Sometimes gently and sometimes very loudly--but always persistently) that all I need to do is join with him and let Him take the lead.  When a lone ox is harnessed into the yoke, the ox just goes around in circles, because the yoke is so heavy.  The ox cannot get a bearing on balancing the load and moving forward.  Only when the oxen are attached to the yoke as a twosome, is the weight of the yoke and the load balanced so they can move forward with their task.  It’s a picture that makes so much sense, but in practice is so difficult to follow.  I can’t seem to relinquish my illusion of control for the assistance of the Master.

Jesus tried all through the Gospels to teach us about the power of God and to learn to trust Him in our daily walk.  The parables and the examples such as this one help to make things clearer.  God also sends messengers through the ages who preach and teach and share their thoughts through their writings.  God most especially uses music to help us learn more about our relationship with God.  George F. Handel used this passage from Matthew in his famous oratorio, The Messiah.  The words are first sung in a solo which is followed by a chorus singing “His yoke is easy and His burden is light.”  When the words and music are wafting through my brain, the message becomes clearer.  My role is to surrender.  But, NOT as a brain-dead zombie!!  He wants a thinking-doing follower who puts love into action.

God promises “rest”.  We tend to think of rest as an absence of activity.  But in reality, God promises that if we surrender, we can be freed from the ruts of worry and brooding. He will provide direction and strength to persevere.  Surrender, like forgiveness of sins and giving thanks is a daily activity.  We are called to awake each day and surrender to God all that the day holds.  We ask, not for an easy burden, but the strength to carry what we are given, knowing that we are not alone and the burden is always shared.

Dear Loving and Forgiving Father, please continue to send us messages to guide and teach us.  Hear our prayers as we ask for your understanding and eternal patience as we learn these lessons again and again.  Thank you for your love and for always giving us another chance to change.  Help us to surrender daily so that we might serve you by sharing your love through our words and our actions.  AMEN

Chyrl Budd

Devotional 4-21-17

Shadow of Doubt

Lectionary Readings:  Psalm 16; Acts 2: 4a, 22-32; 1 Peter 1: 3-9; & John 20: 19-31
“You never saw him, yet you love him.  You still don’t see him, yet you trust him---with laughter and singing.  Because you kept on believing, you’ll get what you’re looking forward to:  total salvation”. 
1 Peter 1:  8-9  (The Message)

It was a week of highs and lows, pain, disappointment, wonder, and awe.  Was it only last week??  We started Holy week with a triumphal entry into Jerusalem, a celebration with a parade and then the week ended with the amazing miracle of the resurrection.  In between these two mountaintop experiences were some of the lowest of “downer” events: the anger of Jesus in the temple that had become a marketplace, the Upper Room Last Supper, the trial, mocking and scourging and then the ultimate crucifixion and death of Jesus.  It was a traumatic week filled, to say the least, but filled with miraculous love and redemption.

It is no wonder that after the crucifixion, the disciples experienced much anxiety and fear.  And after Easter, when he appeared to them on several occasions, they thought they were dealing with an imposter or a spirit of some kind.  I don’t think I would be any different.  Doubt is easy for me.  I can second guess myself and the circumstances of my life without any trouble at all.  Is that what God is really saying to me?  What is God sending me to do? Who am I supposed to care for??

And here we are, more than 2000 years past the actual events and we are still dealing with our doubts about these riveting events.  How do we cope with the unreality of the Holy Week events??  What do we do with those shadows of doubt?? What do we do with our lives to show that we do believe??  We can’t touch Jesus’ nail wounds to give us physical proof.  We don’t have a time machine so that we can go back and observe and “take notes” to fill in the gaps of time and knowledge.  We have to take it on faith that Peter and the gospel writers were relating the events as they happened.

There are not many “sure things” in this world.  But as the writer of 1Peter affirms:  “What a God we have!  And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus!  Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we’ve been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven—and the future starts now!”  Peter was convinced of the truth of the situation beyond a “shadow of a doubt”.  He had no room for error, speculation or vacillation.  He was absolutely convinced that Jesus was the Messiah and through His amazing and wondrous love, had willingly sacrificed himself for our sins.

We are not promised a life free of aggravation, suffering or heartache.  Peter tells us that even pure gold must be refined in the fire.  Our faith in the resurrection means that our suffering in this life will be the proof of the fire that refines us for the wholeness and healing of the next life.  When we surrender our doubts to the God of Grace, His grace is sufficient for our every need, including our eternal life.

Dear God of Power and Grace, we thank you for your many gifts.  Most of all we are grateful for the gift of your son, Jesus.  We cannot easily believe that you love us so much that you would allow the death of your son for our sins, but we pray that you will help us with our unbelief.  Be with us as we struggle with this precious gift.  We thank you for the grace of your love for us and that we can be sure, beyond a doubt, that your love is dependable and faithful. We are thankful that we are yours and do not need to fear, because our eternal life has been arranged.  AMEN!!

Chyrl Budd

“I serve a Risen Savior, He’s in the world today! … You ask me how I know he lives? He lives within my heart!!!”

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 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 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

Devotional 7-3-15

ENOUGH GRACE

Lectionary Readings:  2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10; Psalm 48; 2 Corinthians 12:  2-10; Mark 6:1-13

And then He told me, “My grace is enough; it’s all you need.  My strength comes into its own in your weakness.”  Once I heard that, I was glad to let it happen.  I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift.  It was a case of Christ’s strength moving in on my weakness. Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size---abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks.  I just let Christ take over!  And so the weaker I get the stronger I become. (2 Corinthians 12: 9-10. The Message)

I think that I speak for the majority when I say that celebrating a weakness is not an easy thing to do.   Human nature leans closer to celebrating accomplishments, joys, achievements and wins.  The idea of appreciating a weakness is as radical as “the last will be first” or “you must lose your life to save it”.  And yet, that is exactly what Paul advises.  The theme of this chapter of the second letter to the Corinthians is “Surrender to God and God will provide all you need, even enough strength to overcome any weakness”.

Surrendering control of our lives to God is such a radical idea that most of us have great difficulty in accomplishing the surrender.  The act of surrendering control is difficult because we like making decisions and choices, planning and implementing, creating and directing. We are encouraged to become independent in all thoughts and actions. Surrendering has a negative connotation when we think it means “giving in” or “giving up”.  Even dealing with a full-fledged handicap is not usually welcomed as an asset even though many of us compensate effectively for multitudes of different and varying degrees of handicap.But Paul is talking about spiritual surrender not an abandonment of self-control.

The blessing of this radical change of thinking is that God already knows what we need.  The marvelous grace of God is the gift given freely because of the sacrifice of his Son on Calvary.  Surrendering to God—Letting Christ take over—gives us the strength we require for any situation or activity. God promises to accept us as we are, with our limitations and handicaps, with no strings attached.  Ah, the mystery of love!!!

This hymn about God’s grace is one example of the depth of God’s love for us(#365 in the Methodist Hymnal):

Marvelous grace of our loving Lord, Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace

Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt! Freely bestowed on all who believe!

Yonder on Calvary’s mount outpoured, You that are longing to see his face,

There where the blood of the Lamb was spilt, will you this moment his grace receive?

Grace, Grace, God’s grace,

Grace that will pardon and cleanse within,

Grace, Grace, God’s grace,

Grace that is greater than all our sin!

Julia H. Johnston (1911)

Dear Loving God, We humbly ask you to forgive us for our sins.  We thank you for your amazing gift of love and acceptance—love beyond our wildest imagination.  Help us to surrender to your guidance and plan for our lives.  Help us to accept the grace that you so freely offer.  AMEN

Chyrl Budd
P.S   Happy Independence Day Weekend, everyone.  Celebrate responsibly!!

Devotional 3-20-15

 “Clean-Up”

Lectionary Readings:  Jeremiah 31: 31-34; Psalm 51: 1-12; Hebrews 5:5-10 and John 12: 20-33.

“Soak me in your laundry and I’ll come out clean, scrub me and I’ll have a snow-white life.  Tune me in to foot-tapping songs, set these once-broken bones to dancing.  Don’t look too close for blemishes, give me a clean bill of health.  God, make a fresh start in me, shape a Genesis week from the chaos of my life.” Psalm 51:  7-9  (The Message).

My grandparents did not have indoor plumbing until I was in college.  Washing dishes, clothes and bodies was always an interesting adventure.  A “day in the life” at Grandma’s seemed so carefree to all of the grandchildren.  We raced and chased outside all day long.  There were creeks to ford and trees to climb.  Chickens to chase and buttercups to pick.  When the sun lowered we would be called in and reluctantly report for “bath time”. The tub, which consisted of a round galvanized tub about 3 feet in diameter, was set up close to the stove. No privacy was really needed when we were younger, but we usually did take turns in the tub. Since all the water had to be pumped and then heated, the water was never very deep, but we pretended we were sailing the seas in our fantastic ship and we imagined the water pouring over our head was really a water fall to hide behind during a wonderful mystery.

When I read the version of Psalm 51 from The Message, I was reminded of the wash tub we bathed in at Grandma’s house.  For most of my childhood, the tub always signified an adventure.  Later as I grew, the tub began to pose a challenge as I no longer really fit in the tub in a seated position.  So it was with a giggle that I pictured God’s BIG laundry tub where I would be soaked and scrubbed as laundry to become clean.

The focus on the laundry tub was short-lived as God immediately drew my attention to the purpose of a tub:  a thorough “soul cleaning”.  Psalm 51, written by David after he was confronted by Nathan about David’s affair with Bathsheba, is a plea for forgiveness.  David pled guilty to his sin and asked to be forgiven and cleansed from its grasp.  Although I am not guilty of adultery, “sin is sin,” as my father would remind me, and the daily act of asking for forgiveness is a necessity.

Lent 2015 for me has been a challenge to improve my prayer life.  God has been calling me to develop a pattern of prayer throughout the day that can be repeated daily.  This process has increased an awareness of my shortcomings and a sad lack of diligence.  I had settled into a habit of quick, short prayers regarding the challenge of the moment and not the deep soul-searching prayers meant to improve my relationship with God.

Today, God has used this psalm to remind me of an important needed addition to my prayers—a method of asking for forgiveness. I had not studied Psalm 51 for some time.  Using The Message translation was a chance to explore the words from a different perspective.  The climactic message David conveys is that God has the power to forgive, and what God demands of us is a “broken and contrite heart.”  We can go through the motions of worship and offerings on the altar, but what God requires is the surrender of our hearts and our will to God’s direction.  Forgiveness is readily available—we just have to ask for it on a daily basis.

God is in the cleaning business—cleaning up sin and offering forgiveness. Jesus’ life was sacrificed for our sins.  We cannot “fix” our sins on our own.  Why not spend some time studying this psalm and try some of God’s version of spring cleaning—a fresh start with a healthy dose of forgiveness.  “Wash me and I shall be whiter than snow”.

Dear Loving God, we ask your forgiveness for our many sins and transgressions.  We are truly sorry for the disappointments and heartaches we have caused you.  Please accept our penitent hearts and show us a way to serve you with greater commitment.  We submit our lives to your will.  Help us to follow your direction more diligently.  We thank you for the life of your son whose blood was shed for our sins.  Help us to serve you by sharing your love as Jesus has shown us.  AMEN.


Chyrl Budd

Devotional 6-20-14

Don’t Be Afraid !!

Lectionary Readings:  Genesis 21: 8-21; Psalm 17; Psalm 86: 1-10 & 16-17; Romans 6: 1-11; Matthew 10: 24-39.
Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.  Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.  Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your father.  And even the hairs of your head are all numbered.  So don’t be afraid:  you are worth more than many sparrows. Matthew 10:28-30.

Lately, I have been struggling with change.  The end/beginning of various chapters of my life and the lives of several friends and family members.  Many of the events are joyfully anticipated and celebrated even though they mean big changes in future schedules and life focus—my grandson just graduated from high school and will be going to Marshall in the fall.  We have truly enjoyed all of the senior activities and team triumphs, but there is also an element of sadness as a part of life’s journey must be laid aside.  Other changes involve more sadness than celebration: saying “Happy Retirement” to trusted friends or “Best Wishes in your New Job or New Home” as friends move on to other activities or places.  Even the death of long-time friends has caused me to pause and reflect on the changes that are happening all around me.

But as I read and contemplated the scriptures for this week, I realized that the constant that I can and should be counting on is GOD.  I am blessed by a God who cares for me, wants the best for me, loves me beyond any speck of deserving and who sends me countless messages to “PAY ATTENTION:  I AM IN CHARGE:  DO NOT BE AFRAID!!!”  Change is inevitable.  I don’t need to be afraid of the future, because God is in control.  Those who know me, know that giving up control is not a natural or easy activity for me.  I struggle with letting go more than is reasonable or comfortable, but all of my future is in God’s hands.  I do not need to be afraid.

Why should I feel discouraged?  Why should the shadows come?

Why should my heart be lonely and long for heaven and home,

When Jesus is my portion? My constant friend is he:

His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.

His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.

Whenever I am tempted, whenever clouds arise,

When song gives place to sighing, when hope within me dies,

I draw the closer to him, from care he sets me free:

His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.

His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.

I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free,

For his eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me.

                                                                                    Words by Civilla Martin

Life is constantly shifting and moving like the sand dunes at the beach. When we are lucky enough to actually visit a beach, we observe the changing tides and the sights and smells surrounding us and are reminded that even the lands and the seas do not stay the same. There is a plan in the ebb and flow of all of life.  My problems may seem overwhelming at times, but God holds my hand, shelters my soul and hides me from the storm.  Change happens—hang on to God and enjoy the ride!

Dear Heavenly Protector we are so very grateful for your constant presence in our lives.  Help us to sing or say these words daily to remind us that we are yours. And although life changes fill us with fear, you are always the source of our protection and strength.
“Let the Son of God enfold you with his Spirit and his love. 
Let him fill your heart and satisfy your soul.
O let him have the things that hold you and his Spirit like a dove 
will descend upon your life and make you whole.
O come and sing this song with gladness as your hearts are filled with joy.  
Lift your hands in sweet surrender to his name.  
O give him all your tears and sadness; give him all your years of pain, 
and you’ll enter into life in Jesus’ name.
Jesus, Jesus, come and fill your lambs.  
Jesus, O,  Jesus, come and fill your lambs.” 
(words by John Wimber)     AMEN.

Chyrl Budd

Devotional 6-27-13

Born Free!

Lectionary Readings for the Week:  2 Kings: 1-2 & 6-14; Psalm 77: 1-2 & 11-20; Galatians 5:1 & 13-25; and Luke 9: 51-62.      "It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life.  Just make sure that you don't use this freedom as an excuse to do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom.  Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love; that's how freedom grows.  For everything we know about God's Word is summed up in a single sentence:  Love others as you love yourself.  that's an act of true freedom.  If you bite and ravage each other, watch out--in no time at all you will be annihilating each other, and where will your precious freedom be then?"  Galatians 5: 13-15

This week's passage from Paul's letter to the Galatians provides several instructions on how to live a God-like life. God has given us freedom to choose our life style. In verse 23, Paul invites us to take on the fruits of the Spirit:  love, peace, joy, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control as behaviors that signify that we are allowing God to guide our actions. The key to accomplishing this God-filled life seems to hinge on relying on God for guidance in all our choices and living out the commandment to love one another.  When we choose to love, our actions and behaviors become more God-like.

At first reading, the freedom idea seems great. "You can choose any behavior or activity you desire."  But then Paul shares the "rest of the story".    "Be prepared:  if you choose to live without God--you will have a life filled with all manner of negative emotions and heartache."  In verses 19-21, Paul warns of results that occur when we try to get our own way all the time and that if we continue to use our freedom to live only as we choose, we will not inherit God's kingdom.  God gives us freedom and with the freedom to choose, we must understand that there will be dire consequences when we choose to ignore the commandment to love one another.

I don't know about you, but my daily walk usually starts out with all good intentions for making wise use of my freedom of choice, but when I examine it at the end of the day, I am highly disappointed and I'm sure God is also.  Loving my neighbor is easy enough for my friends and family, but what did I do for those not in my "inner circle"?  It has been said that what we spend the most time and money on are the things that we value the most.  My lack of regard for following God's will for my life shows up in my checkbook and debit card receipts.  God is asking me to examine my DAILY choices.

Freedom is not easy.  Freedom is not to be ignored or taken for granted, either.  And it seems that the more we struggle with our personal freedoms and when and how we should be protecting other's freedoms, we begin to see how living a God-like life requires a greater effort on our part.  We live in a very "connected" world.  But are we connected to God and have we listened for His voice of guidance?    Are we connected to the needs of those in our backyards?  Have we noticed those around us who are not free to make their own choices because of poverty, infirmity or the prison of a lifetime of poor choices?  What is God calling us to do with these observations?  How can we "love our neighbor" a little better each day?

Paul says in verses 25 and 26:  "Since this is the kind of life we have chosen, the life of the Spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives.  that means we will not compare ourselves with each other as if one of us were better and another worse.  We have far more interesting things to do with our lives.  Each of us is an original." (The Message)

Dear Gracious and Loving God, you have provided all the tools to guide our behaviors and you call us daily to listen to your guidance.  We thank you for the bounty of love that you shower on us without reserve and the freedom to choose our path.  We are heartily sorry for all our missed choices to serve one another in love. Please forgive our negligence and selfishness.  Help us to make better choices each day that serve to increase our connectedness to you and to ALL our neighbors. AMEN.
 

Chyrl Budd

Devotional 5-24-12

Pentecost--Breath of God
 

Lectionary Readings:Acts 2:1-21; Psalm 104: 24-34, 35b; Romans 8: 22-27; John 15:26-27 & 16: 4-15.
"When the Feast of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Without warning there was a sound like a strong wind, gale force--no one could tell where it came from. It filled the whole building. Then, like a wildfire, the Holy spirit spread through their ranks, and they started speaking in a number of different languages as the Spirit prompted them." (Acts 2:1-4 from The Message)

One of my favorite choral works is "Elijah" by Mendelssohn. It contains many special passages, but one that inspires me is a tenor aria with the lyrics: "If with all your hearts ye truly seek me, ye shall ever surely find me. Thus saith our God." God promises to be available, to be approachable, to never leave us comfortless. His very breath gives us life. His word creates anew all living things. He asks that we seek Him and wait for His presence to fill us.

That was the instruction to the disciples--to wait in the upper room for the promise of a baptism of the Holy Spirit. No one in that room knew how or when the spirit would be made known. Luke describes the scene as a wind that came without warning--filling the entire building. Then each individual was filled with the fire of the spirit which ignited their very souls. The "fire" ignited the birth of the church--the spread of the "good news to the world."

As "modern" Christians. we are not very effective in the art of waiting. We live in the instant gratification era--cell phones, I-pads, Instant messages, Insta-grams, etc. Waiting, according to Paul, should be like the pangs of pregnancy where the waiting increases our longing for delivery. The longer we wait, the higher our expectations are for a joyful result. But do we approach the Holy Spirit with this high level of expectation? Do we seek the challenge of a creating God who will mold us and re-fire us? Do we just take it for granted that the Holy Spirit is somewhere 'out there' and never seek a true baptism of its power in our lives? What would happen if we became seekers of the Holy Spirit?

There is a song by Michael W. Smith : (hear him sing this by doing a "you-tube" search)
This is the air I breathe
This is the air I breathe
Your holy presence living in me

This is my daily bread
This is my daily bread
Your very word spoken to me

And I, I'm desperate for you
And I, I'm, I'm lost without you.

Are we desperate for this wind which is the breath of God? The Hebrew word is ruach which can mean "air in motion", "breath", "life" and also "spirit". The Greek word used in the Acts scripture is pneuma. Translated into English,pnuema means "a current of air", "breath", a "breeze" or "spirit". As an adult we normally breathe 12-20 times each minute. Our brain takes care of sending signals that cause the diaphragm and rib muscles to contract to create an inhalation. We don't have to think about it. We are dependent on the exchange of air during the act of breathing for our very life. If there is a problem with the breathing process, we become desperate for air.

God is waiting for us to seek His breath. The Holy Spirit is our promise of relationship with Him. Let us take on the task of waiting for the Spirit to fill us. "Let everything that has breath praise the Lord." (Psalm 150)

Jeff Taylor wrote this prayer and although I don't have his permission, I include it as our prayer for this day:

Dear God, by the Power of Your Holy Spirit, create us anew. Give us the breath to sing your praises and the faith to soar with you. Give us power to discern what you call us to be and to do. Come Holy Spirit, come! Amen.

Chyrl Budd

Devotional 11-4-11

“Get Ready—Stay Ready”

Lectionary Readings: Joshua 24:1-3 & 14-25; Psalms 78; 1 Thessalonians 2: 13-18; Matthew 25:1-13
“1At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2Five of them were foolish and five were wise.” “13Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.” Matthew 25

Have you ever missed an important event in your life? I once missed my friend’s birthday party because I had not paid attention to the date and completely forgot about the event. I missed out on the fun and celebration of the event, plus I felt that I had greatly disappointed my friend. I had not properly prepared for a significant event in my friend’s life and created a situation that led to the need to ask for her forgiveness. I let trivial worldly activities interfere with a relationship between friends.

In the parable found in Matthew, Jesus was telling his disciples about preparations for a wedding. What a joyous occasion a wedding was in Jesus’ time. The whole community helped with planning and carrying out the traditions and rituals. One of the key events in the celebration was when the bridegroom came to move the bride to their new home. The move was usually accompanied by a “parade” of community well-wishers. In the parable, Jesus relates that the bridegroom was delayed, but when he finally is on the way all were alerted and moved out to meet him. Those who were prepared had enough oil on hand to handle the delay; those who did not buy extra oil have run out and must go and purchase more oil. The message is that one must always be prepared for Jesus’ return. We should strive to avoid the world’s distractions—we must daily “get ready” by confessing our sins and asking God to lead and guide us through our journey. We must persevere with our daily walk and endure life’s trials. The blessing of a grace-filled relationship with Christ will be our reward.

Our adult choir will be singing “Keep Your Lamps” by Andre Thomas this Sunday morning. As with many of the slave songs, this song's impetus came from hearing a sermon based upon the parable found in the book of Matthew, chapter 25, verses 1-13. As a response to the message of this parable, one can only imagine the song stirring from the soul of one slave listener. Jesus was indeed deliverer and a hope for the slave. One can only speculate that this song was sung often, when there was a possibility of deliverance. (You can select from several choirs singing it on You Tube by searching for the title of the song.) Here are the lyrics: 

"Keep Your Lamps”
by Andre Thomas
Keep your lamps trimmed and burning
Keep your lamps trimmed and burning
Keep your lamps trimmed and burning
The time is drawing nigh.

Children, don’t get weary
Children, don’t get weary
Children, don’t get weary
‘til your work is done.

Christian, journey soon be over
Christian, journey soon be over
Christian, journey soon be over
The time is drawing nigh

What are you doing in your daily walk to prepare for your future? Perhaps you are being called to increase your study time. Perhaps it’s your prayer life that needs attention and improvement. Perhaps you are being called to a ministry that is outside your comfort zone or to continue and improve a current ministry. Are you being asked to give up a habit that is a burden to your relationship with God? Whatever the call, you are encouraged by the words of the anthem to not grow weary until your work is done.

Oh God, our strong deliverer: We confess that we do not always follow where you lead. We are not always ready to follow your guidance or work to improve our relationship with you and with others. We have been lax in our preparations and have failed to honor promises that we have made to you. Please forgive us and help us to improve. We thank you for the many messages sent to inspire and encourage us. Help us to heed those messages and to turn from our foolish ways. AMEN

Chyrl Budd