Devotional 9-25-20

Philippians 2: 1-13
The Student Bible; New International Version 

BE LIKE JESUS 

Much of Paul’s ministry during his time was done through letters he wrote to the members of the newly established churches. It was the easiest way to communicate. His letters were to the point, and if he had heard a particular church was having problems and needed attention, he handled it with a letter. From THE STUDENT BIBLE we learn that Paul’s usual sense of urgency has all but disappeared in his letters to the Philippians. Instead, he begins writing about Christian behavior and how church members can offer help when reaching out to other people. His letters to the Philippians are more like a conversation with them. Perhaps for the first time, he asks the big question: What is God’s overall purpose for this world? The answer is as important today as it was then. 

 Verses 1 through 4 of Philippians says it best: “¹If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, ²then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. ³Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. ⁴Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interest of others.”

The Philippians have already learned from Paul that Christ lives in every Christian, and now he asks them to think about what it means to be a representative of Christ in the world. Isn’t Jesus the “perfect example” to follow? He tells them that, as Christians and as believers, they need to be just like Christ if they are to be his representatives in our world.

The scripture continues, and Paul says: “   ⁵Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: ⁶Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, ⁷but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of the servant, being made in human likeness. ⁸AnId being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross.  ⁹Therefore God exulted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, ¹⁰that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, ¹¹and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

 Read the scripture once more as if Paul is speaking directly to us today. Are we living our lives as Christ lived His? Jesus lived a simple life. He was a humble man. He never hesitated to help others when He saw a need. He loved and accepted everyone without question.  As a man here on earth, he indeed was the perfect example for us to emulate.

In the hectic, fast-paced, self-serving world in which we live today, we often allow our emotions to get the best of us. We lose our temper. We get angry. We’re tired. We skipped breakfast AND lunch. We put in 12 hours at work today. And we’re supposed to be like Jesus? When? How? It’s just too hard.

Stop. We’ve lost control, and it’s time to turn to prayer. God always listens. Today we’ll take the time to listen to Him. We are Christians, and we want to be like Jesus, so just stop. Then refocus. There are others in this world who have greater needs than ours. What would Jesus do? Where should we start? What’s the best way to help? Refocus. Refocus. Be like Jesus. Get started. God and the Holy Spirit are here.

Prayer:  Dear Lord, I want to be like Jesus. I want to be his disciple, to do what He asks of me, even though sometimes I think it’s too hard. Help me to respond to others needing the help I’m able to give. And thanks for reminding me that I will always have your help and the help of the Holy Spirit.  Now Lord, please. I know I can do this. Help me be like Jesus. Amen

Diane Feaganes

Devotional 8-21-20

 Please read Exodus 1:8—2:10   THE STORY OF MOSES

Preparing for my devotion, I found myself reading Bible passages I don’t recall having ever read before. I am not surprised. I don’t read the Bible just to be reading it, as one of my good friends does. There must be a reason before I open the Bible (like preparing for this devotion)!

Sometimes when I see one of our church members holding a Bible, I like to check it out. When the Bible is well worn around the edges, and there are places marked inside with little post-its on some pages, I know that person is a frequent reader of the Bible.  Sometimes the little pieces of paper are different colors, and I want to ask what all the different colors mean. And when I can catch them with their Bible opened, I see some highlighted passages, maybe with a note written in the margin. I want to become a reader like that! This opportunity, the story of Moses, seems to be a great place to start. My favorite version of the Bible is the New International Version Student Bible because it has insights and explanations scattered in every chapter that are helpful as you read.

An insight into the beginning of our scripture tells me that the Israelites had endured nearly four centuries of oppression before their exodus. They no doubt believed God had forgotten them. Their large and growing population had the Pharaoh sure of an uprising, that he commanded every boy born to a Hebrew mother would be killed.

The mother of Moses hid her son for three months, and after that time, in order that he would be safe, she placed him in a water-tight basket, and told her daughter to place the baby in the Nile River among the reeds along the bank. The daughter watched to see what might happen; when he cried, the Pharaoh’s daughter found him and claimed him as her own. She named him Moses, which meant “out of water.” As Moses grew to become a young man, he was among the elite of the Pharaoh’s court.

Within the second Chapter of Exodus appears another interesting insight: “After compressing three-and-a-half centuries into a few verses, Exodus devotes chapters 3-40 to the events of a single year. In contrast to Genesis’s large cast of characters, Exodus focuses on one main character, Moses.”

One afternoon, Moses witnessed the terrible beating of a Hebrew slave by an Egyptian centurion. He became angry, and killed the centurion, then knew he must flee from Egypt, and he ended up in Midean. He was welcomed by the town’s priest and his seven daughters and settled in to live with them. He married Zipporah, one of the daughters, and from her he learned of the mountain of God, called Horeb.

It is here that Moses discovered the burning bush. The Lord called out to him by name, and thus began the close and personal relationship between Moses and God. He said to Moses, “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob.”  God then told Moses he must return to Egypt and lead the Hebrews out of that land, saving them from further misery. Moses resisted the request, believing he was unworthy, with no authority to do such a thing. But when they arrived in Egypt, God said to Moses, “See, I have made you like God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron will be your prophet. You are to say everything I command you, and your brother Aaron is to tell Pharaoh to let the Israelites go out of his country….When Pharaoh says to you, ‘Perform a miracle,’ then say to Aaron, ‘Take your staff and throw it  before Pharaoh,’ and it will become a snake.”  Knowing God would be with them, Moses and Aaron did just as God had asked.

I continued reading this fascinating story because I had no knowledge of what would take place. And when I finally got to the plagues, I had a vague recollection of something happening, but what. I have now read to Chapter Seven, well beyond the assigned scripture! Just how far will this story take me? I eagerly dug in, and there were the plagues!

Do you remember them all? Can you name them in order?

1. Water turned to blood 
2. Frogs 
3. Gnats 
4. Flies 
5. Diseased livestock 
6. Boils 
7. Thunder and hail 
8. Locusts 
9. Darkness 
10. Death of the first born

The plagues, found in Exodus Chapters seven through twelve, were horrifying. But it took something so ugly, so devastating to successfully confront the Pharaoh to let the Israelites leave. Reading about them drove home to me the fact that God is there—always.  He knows how we think, where we stand, and what we can do. It’s amazing!  

With God’s help, as well as Arron’s, Moses had the authority and the power to end the suffering of the Israelites. They knew he was chosen to take them to the promised land.

Another insight: “The Bible does not is concern itself with the question of how these natural phenomena occurred; it merely affirms that something supernatural took place. The miracles were an unprecedented display of God’s holy power…. A nation was about to be born, and the Israelites’ uprooting from Egypt called for such power. They had, after all, lived for centuries in Egypt. It would take a strong incentive indeed to motivate massive, abrupt departure.”

Then I eventually came to Chapter Fifteen: “The Song of Moses” and read on. The song is long, they and I’m caught up in it, hearing every word and seeing in my mind the thousands of Israelites, singing and dancing for joy! It’s delightful all the way to the end!

“Sing to the Lord, for he is highly exulted!

The horse and its rider he has hurled into the sea!

Then I closed my Bible, finished for now. But I know the meaning of this experience. And it is good.

Diane Feaganes

Devotional - Easter Sunday

The Hope of the Resurrection

I can imagine Mary, the mother of Jesus, gazing at her newborn son with immediate love and tenderness. Mothers do that. And I can imagine Joseph thinking of this child’s years growing up, and all they would do together. Fathers do that. As parents seem to do, Mary and Joseph must surely have wondered about His future, this tiny baby boy, who was sent by God for them to care for and watch over.
   
I think it’s easy to imagine Jesus as a child, playing with his siblings, running and laughing, sometimes helping his mother with chores. He’d watch Joseph working, learning all He could about carpentry, for He knew Joseph expected Jesus to follow in his footsteps.
       
When Jesus was twelve or thirteen, the family made a trip to Jerusalem during Passover. And while they were there, they visited the Temple. Jesus must have decided he was old enough to challenge the elders, and he did. They were amazed at this young man’s extensive knowledge and they wondered how he knew so much as they talked.

Meanwhile, Mary and Joseph left for home thinking Jesus was with the others in their group. He wasn’t!  So they made the trip back to Jerusalem to find him still with the elders in the Temple. Mary admonished Jesus, perhaps embarrassing him. Mothers can do that when they’re worried. Jesus responded by asking her why they were looking for him. Didn’t they know he must be in His Father’s house?   

As time passed and Jesus was on his own, his magnetism drew others to follow him—especially a diverse group of twelve men whose callings were to become His disciples. When Jesus had asked them to follow him, they did. When Jesus began his ministry, he greatly depended on their help. They were with him as He ministered to all his followers, including his disciples. He performed miracles that amazed them. I imagine when Jesus spent time with friends eager to share a meal with him, his disciples were asked to come along.

I imagine Jesus was a rather serious young man who nevertheless enjoyed the companionship of his twelve dedicated followers. We know from the Bible he was a gentle and kind man. And He was compassionate. But we know he could also get very angry and impatient. Some in the crowds didn’t trust him. Many feared him and despised him. And in the end, they crucified him.

But it’s hard to imagine Jesus’ Resurrection, how it happened. It seems an impossible outcome after Jesus’ crucifixion! But it was part of God’s plan, and Jesus wanted to appear before his disciples to explain His Resurrection. Then He told them He would soon be gone. He reminded them what they needed to do once He left them to be with His Father in Heaven. They were to remember all they had taught them, and do as He had done, because they were Christians.

Jesus has also taught us to follow Him as Christians. We are to serve him faithfully as his disciples, doing all he expects of us. When we do…we shall have eternal life. That is the hope given to us—the hope of the Resurrection.

Diane Feaganes

Devotional 11-22-19

Paul’s Warning
 

II Thessalonians 3: 6-13

As he began working on his second letter to the Thessalonians, Paul remembered how well  his previous letter had been received by them. They were on their way to establishing their own church and it was wonderful! They were enthusiastic about what was happening! They were so eager to learn more about this man called Jesus, and to start their church in his name. Paul’s first letter to them was full of information about Jesus and Paul’s personal knowledge of him. There was much to be done to bring in new believers. Paul had given them a lot of encouragement and incentive to work hard. They were growing together through Christ’s love. They understood that Paul expected them to work together and keep busy to be successful.

But Paul had heard some disturbing news from his followers. Many of the Thessalonians were idly wasting their time while others continued working and doing the right thing. He believed it was time to set the record straight. Everyone was to be working! Paul’s followers told him that plain idleness had set in because everyone decided they would just wait for Jesus to arrive.

Paul must have thought long and hard about what he would say in his second letter to the Thessalonians. They must understand that certain things were to happen before Jesus returned. No one knew quite what those things were, or how long that would take, but Paul told them to get back to work! They must not sit idly around doing nothing. He warned that idleness would not be tolerated. He urged them in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down, work hard, and earn their meals. Most important, Paul just wanted them to do what he had asked, and to do it right.

Heavenly Father,
How blessed we are when we work together for the common good. Whatever the goal, we have fun doing it together, sharing the work, using the best of the talents You have given us. And when the work is over and the day is through, we smile. No need to worry, Father! There will be no loafing, no whining, no complaining, no waste of time, for this work, dear Lord, is done for You. Amen

Diane Feaganes

Devotional 8-9-19

THE TRUTH ABOUT FAITH

THE 13 BOOKS OF HEBREWS
 Hebrews 11:1-3 NRSV
¹Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. ² Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. ³ By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible.
Having read the short book of Hebrews for the first time (yes, it’s true) I have discovered It is full of thought- provoking information, supposedly written by an unknown author.  Scholars apparently can’t agree about who may have written it or for whom it was written. But I was fascinated with it! In Chapters one through ten, the writer focuses on many aspects of Jesus and his life, using what I believe is an unusual approach which is very interesting and leaves much to think about. The writer believed his audience was faced with deciding whether they would stick with Judaism or change to Christianity and makes a good case for becoming Christians because of Jesus and his impact on their lives. He compares the Old Testament with life’s advantages to living in the present—the life of those who lived after Jesus’ time.  He maintained it was far better than those who lived during Old Testament times.

Have you thought much about the meaning of faith? In Chapter 11 the writer discusses true faith. He defines it in the above verses, and further examines it by relating the faith of numerous men in the Bible who counted on their faith in order to trust in God’s promises. Some promises were kept, some never materialized, but these people kept their faith.  Some never saw results during their lifetime, but they were fulfilled by God, nevertheless.

In the remaining Chapters 12 and 13, he goes into more details about faith and what these men interpreted as God’s promises, the New Covenant, and more about the vivid contrast between Old Testament Judaism and New Covenant Christianity--why Christianity is so much better for everyone. He writes of the new kingdom and what is required of mankind to be a part of it. So much of what he says can so easily be applied to our present contemporary Christianity and what the future holds for all Christians, when God’s promise to all who are faithful, is fulfilled.

If you, like me haven’t read Hebrews…or it’s been a long time since you’ve read it, please do so! It is written in such a way that you must take the time to think about it and appreciate it as being just a little, or perhaps even a lot different from what we are used to. I enjoyed it!

Diane Feaganes

Devotional 5-17-19

Hallelujah!

The Message has been used for this devotion

 Psalm 148

As I sit on our screened-in porch writing, I hear the beautiful sound of birds singing. How long will it last, I ask myself, as the sky darkens in the west, and the wind begins to blow. I think to myself, not again! Is the rain ever going to stop?

And I pick up my laptop and head inside. Settled in and ready to continue, I read the Psalm listed for this week’s devotion, Psalm 148. The Psalm continues along the theme of giving praise, as I learn in verse13, " to the name of God--It’s the only Name worth praising.”  The psalmist mentions God’s angels and warriors in praise of Him. Then he jumps to some of the most beautiful of God’s creation as giving praise as well. Who would think that the sun, the moon, the morning stars, heaven, and yes--even the heavenly rain clouds, would join in praising the name of God!  “Praise, oh let them praise the name of God. He spoke the word, and there they were! He set them in place from all time and eternity, He gave his orders, and that’s it!”

The Psalm goes on to include listing of men and women of the whole world; and animals of all types, shapes and sizes, hills and mountains, and the acts of nature, such as hurricanes, all created by God, the psalmist says, and all should praise Him.

So what is the psalmist trying to say? How does an inanimate object, a non-human without a mind, or feelings, or understanding, praise God? Through their actions, just as we can. The rain beats down heavily on the earth, and its companions, the thunder and lightning, share their praise in concert with it. The stars? They twinkle or shine a steady beam of light from the heavens. The hills and the mountains are joined by the sun and the moon in praising their creator, all day, all night, as their light plays along their valleys.

God’s creatures, both wild and domestic, speak in their own way with growls and howls, with their music compositions, with their tramping and running. Some bark. Some meow. Some moooo. Some baaaa. Their ways of praise for their creator are many and diverse, and I believe they are praising God.

And us? What about us? We can sing our praises or pray directly; just like God’s creations, we can praise Him through our actions. It’s a curious thing that the psalmist includes the creations of God’s world in praise with us!

Lord, your amazing creations join us, and in their own way, praise your Holy Name with us. It is one way to let You know how much we love you, and how grateful we are for Your love.  Amen.

Diane Feaganes

Devotional 9-28-18

Please read Psalm 26

In preparation for this devotion, I found several listed scriptures for this Sunday’s liturgy, and randomly selected the above. Silly me! As I’ve gotten into it, I find I’ve picked a somewhat difficult scripture. Let me explain.

At first read, the speaker is bragging about how good he is. In fact, he sounds like he’s perfect: “…I have led a blameless life….” “…I walk continually in your truth….”; “I wash my hands in innocence….”; “…I love the house where you live….”

And he gives assurances to God: “I do not sit with deceitful men, nor do I consort with hypocrites; I abhor the assembly of evildoers and refuse to sit with the wicked.” What’s this? I learned we should be humbled in the presence of the Lord.

I read on only to discover that the psalmist says it again! “…I lead a blameless life!” Then he’s defending himself, not knowing where he stands when it comes to eternal life.  His declaration moves full circle from an attitude of certainty to one of uncertainty! So what’s the explanation here?

Well —something I have learned about Bible Study over the past few years is something that, in a rush for time, I forget. And it’s this: If your Bible has a study guide or editors’ notes, read them—preferably first! I did not read the notes for this scripture. But here they are for you:

“This claim to be blameless or righteous…should not be stretched too far. Whenever the psalmists examined themselves before God, they acknowledged their deep need for forgiveness. Here though the issue is God’s fairness. Knowing little about life after death, the psalmists expected that good people would do better in this life than bad people…. In calling for justice, they emphasized that they had been more faithful to God than their enemies. Compared to the people plotting murder and betrayal against him, the psalmist was blameless. In a wholehearted, sincere way he had followed God. He doesn’t mean he never makes a mistake. He means only that he doesn’t deserve punishment.” (The Student Bible, New International Version, Psalm 26:11, page 506)

And now, we understand.

Heavenly Father, when we are challenged by something—be it great or small, let us not dismiss it in frustration. Rather, help us to be patient, to find help, and to never give up until that challenge is resolved. Amen

Diane Feaganes

Devotional 7-13-18

It’s A Miracle!

The amazing story of the Thai soccer team’s rescue came to a climax today as we learned of their amazing rescue being successfully completed. I’m sure our sense of relief was nothing compared to that of the parents of the twelve boys and their coach who were lost, then found, then rescued.  There’s no doubt in my mind that this was a miracle—the inclusion of God’s hands at work in an unbelievable event.

The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines miracle as “an extraordinary event manifesting divine intervention in human affairs; the healing miracles described in the Gospels.” We are all familiar with the stories of the miracles performed by Jesus. All those witnessing them were amazed to see Jesus heal the infirmed. When the family of Lazarus witnessed Jesus raising him from the dead, there’s no doubt they could hardly believe their eyes! But then, seeing is believing.

So, what is it that makes us believe in miracles? And why is it some people don’t believe in miracles? A good friend of mine would respond, “It’s a God thing.” And, indeed, I believe it is our faith in God that we can call certain events such as this rescue, a miracle—a miracle that this group of young boys and their coach survived for so long before they were found; a miracle that the world pulled together for them, providing experienced seal rescuers, first responders and caregivers to help; and a miracle that they seemed to have fared well through their very traumatic experience.

When God enters the picture, things change. And we call it a miracle. So why does it seem so hard to believe that things can change when we let God enter the picture in our own lives? The power of prayer is an amazing thing, when we open our hearts to commune with God, allow silence in prayer so that we may hear God, and determine what it is He wishes us to do for Him. In many ways, this, too, can be called a miracle, can’t it?

It’s all part of having a deep faith in God that we understand and “see” in our hearts the miracles God brings to this earthly world every day.

May we rejoice—every day—in the power, the glory and the everlasting love of God, our Father!
Diane Feaganes

Devotional 5-4-18

JOHN 15: 9-17

YOU ARE MY FRIENDS….

I would imagine most of us know enough about Facebook to understand that using it is most commonly to help us keep in touch with friends. Someone asks you to be their friend and you accept; or you ask someone to be their friend and they accept.  You have gained the privilege of posting messages which they may read, and vice versa. Personally, I check Facebook perhaps twice a week, and reading through the posts, I can further communicate with my friends by clicking one of several little icons. You can like the comments or pictures, love them, laugh at their humor, show your utter surprise, indicate your sadness or your anger—quite a good selection, don’t you think?

I don’t do much clicking unless the comment or picture makes quite an impression on me. The ones I use most often are simply that I like it (thumbs up!)  or am quite moved by it in some way and I love it (red heart!).  

Throughout the New Testament, Jesus often addresses the disciples and sometimes others in the crowds that follow him as “my friends….” In the above passage, he says, “You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.”

If the above scripture reading were a post from Jesus on Facebook, what other response could I possibly have given than to click the little red heart?  His post is wonderful news!

 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.  My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”

As we yearn to be part of the Body of Christ, let us reach out to others—even to those we may not know well, call them our friends, obey God’s commands, and click the little red heart.

It’s not so easy as clicking the little red heart on Facebook.  But—perhaps it could become so, if we did it as often as we do on Facebook! 

Diane Feaganes

Devotional 10-27-17

Please read Luke 24:13-35

THE WALK TO EMMAUS

This past weekend, I participated in the Ashland Area Emmaus Women’s Walk #46. My own Walk #35 was in the spring of 2012, and since that time, I have occasionally participated in subsequent walks as a member of the Emmaus Team—those community members asked to help direct attendees through their 72-hour retreat. I shall never forget my own Walk, because it changed my life from someone who just automatically attended church, to one who acknowledges Christ as my Lord and Savior, and who has been filled with God’s grace. I have never felt such joy in my life, nor have I ever felt such a close relationship with God.

The purpose of The Walk to Emmaus is to “… raise up Christian leaders to renew their own church as the Body of Christ in action”—all people of God who, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, seek to continue Christ’s life and ministry wherever they are. There are two walks for men, and two walks for women, held in the spring and in the fall every year at South Ashland United Methodist Church.

Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions of this wonderful retreat which make people somewhat hesitant to give it a try. I’ve heard some joke that the Walk is a cult, or a club, or a secret organization to be avoided. Of course, nothing could be further from the truth! The Walk can be a time of spiritual renewal; it can be a time to learn more about being a good Christian; it is a time of making new Christian friends—some of whom remain friends long after their Walk has been completed. It’s a time of learning, worshipping, singing, sharing, joy, laughter, and yes—sometimes tears. But always, it is a time of nurturing and support.

Each Walk to Emmaus becomes a Christian Community all its own, similar to that of the early churches formed after Christ’s resurrection—made up of men and women, young and “old,” of every denomination, every race, every class and background. By the end of their Walk, they have become part of the church’s witness at its best—that in Christ, all natural differences that normally separate us from others, are overcome. When people who might otherwise be divided become united in Christian love, working for the common good, the church is truly an expression of the Body of Christ. One’s commitment doesn’t end when their Walk ends. It continues in the work of his/her own church, supported by others who have completed their Walk, as well as all members in the Ashland Area Emmaus Community who gather monthly for supper, worship and participation.

Between now and March, or later in the fall of October, please think about taking your own Walk to Emmaus. If you have questions, seek out other church members who have already taken their own Walk to Emmaus. I guarantee you will never regret it. And the experience may change your life, just as it has changed mine! 

Diane Feaganes    

Devotional 6-30-17

The Gift of Silence

Habakkuk 2:20  “ The Lord is in His holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him.”

I have recently been using a book of devotions by Sheila Walsh called “Quiet Time for Your Soul.” As the title suggests, the devotions focus on taking time to slow down, read scripture, and spend time with God. Sometimes that means we need to listen quietly to Him, to hear what he is saying to us during our prayer time. As busy as we all are, we sometimes find it difficult to take the time to be silent and just listen.

She asks, “Am I too often so concerned with being heard that I miss what God is saying? Is He speaking, but I can’t hear Him because I never embrace the silence?

I don’t think I’m the only one. Sometimes it seems our world is afraid of silence. It seems like almost every moment of the day is filled with motion and sound. Even in the middle of the night, our phones buzz and beep.

Does silence still matter in a world addicted to noise? I think it matters more than ever because practicing silence before God clears the way for Him to speak to us.

If you are new to the practice, you might find it challenging at first, but be patient with yourself. Begin by finding a quiet place where you won’t be interrupted. Then give yourself permission to put everything aside for just a few minutes—your worries, to-do list, whatever you need to do next—and be silent before God.

If your mind wanders, don’t beat yourself up. Just gently bring your heart and mind back to Jesus. He’s waiting there for you always…with love…with mercy…with forgiveness and grace. Let all the earth be silent before him.”

Prayer:

Dear Lord, help us to be silent. We so often ask You for direction in our lives, and then don’t take the time to listen. Our lives are so much better when we quietly sit to hear what you are telling us. We are grateful, Lord, for the gift of silence. Help us to better appreciate that gift. Amen

Diane Feaganes

Devotional 3-17-17

WATER FROM THE ROCK

Please read Exodus 17: 1- 7

I learn so much each time I write a devotional. I just finished reading about Moses (Student’s Edition of the New International Version) in the introduction to the Book of Exodus. Though Moses did have an Egyptian upbringing, he became the true liberator of the Israelites, leading them from bondage as slaves in Egypt, to their freedom. It is the book of Exodus that tells the full story.

Moses didn’t have an easy time with these Israelites! In fact, Moses wasn’t sure he would ever gain their trust. And he called on God frequently to find out how in the world he was going to lead this long journey with them to the Promised Land. I have read very little of the Book of Exodus, but have begun and intend to finish it during Lent. I think it will be a fascinating journey!

The scripture noted above is the story of the Israelites’ reaction when they realize, upon reaching Rephadim to set up camp, that they have no water. They are furious with Moses and quarrels abound as they argue with him and proclaim that God is no longer with them. Moses cries out to God in frustration, asking for help. He is given instructions to proceed on to the Rock at Horab. He is to take several of the elders as witness, and once there, touch the rock with his staff. Amazingly, water flows from the rock for the Israelites. Appropriately, Moses calls this place Massah (meaning “testing”) and Meribah (meaning “quarreling”)! The Israelites, however, continue to rebel against Moses and because of their lack of faith in God, the Israelites wander the wilderness for forty years!

Have you ever felt like the Israelites, as if you are being tested by God? Perhaps you have shown anger, lashing out at Him because of something awful in your life which you believe God has done to you. Or maybe you didn’t receive an answer from God for something you have asked over and over again to do for you. There are times in each of our lives when it is so easy to forget that God is with us.

Unlike the Israelites, however, we are not wandering in the wilderness.  That is because God sent his Son to us as our Savior. We acknowledge Him as the Son of God, we are guided by the Holy Spirit to do his work. Our belief in Christ as our Savior tells us we will not perish, but have everlasting life. Our sorrow during Lent at His crucifixion becomes great joy upon His resurrection.  Though we make mistakes, sometimes question our faith, or unintentionally or otherwise separate ourselves from God, He never leaves us. He is always there for us.

Let us take time during the Lenten Season as we remember Christ’s death and resurrection, to think upon these things. And once we’ve finished this heart-to-heart talk with ourselves, let us try a heart-to-heart with God, to renew our relationship with Him and listen to Him speak to us. It seems the right thing to do at this time during Lent.

Diane Feaganes 

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 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 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 3-18-16

SADNESS INTO JOY
 

As a youngster, the pending arrival of Easter meant a trip to our local department store to pick out a new dress, and perhaps a new pair of shoes. And if the budget allowed, we might pick out a pretty hat to match!   And of course it also meant the arrival of the Easter bunny on Easter morning, to fill our basket full of all sorts of good things to eat.  And it meant that we’d definitely be going to Sunday School and Church.

As a teenager, active in youth group and singing in the choir, Easter took on a more serious meaning and I seemed to focus on Good Friday for some reason, taking in the total sadness of the story of the crucifixion. Maundy Thursday and Good Friday made an indelible impression on my mind. I just couldn’t imagine how horrible it must have been for Jesus.  I can’t begin to explain why my thoughts centered on the pain and suffering Jesus endured, rather than the joy of his resurrection on Easter Sunday.  I was just being a teenager, I suppose.

Now as an adult, I look upon this time in our church year quite differently, of course—certainly more seriously. I think as Christians we all have our personal perspective on the events of this season. For a long time now, I have embraced Lent, The Last Supper, Good Friday and Easter Sunday as a collective and true gift from God. Each year, little has changed regarding that perspective, it seems. Lent offers me the opportunity to study more and think about what positive changes I can make in my relationship with God through the humanness of Christ.
   
The celebration of the Last Supper begins to settle in my thoughts as the last time Christ gathered his disciples together, preparing them to go on in his absence and yet leaving them confused as they struggle to try to understand what he is telling them. He knows what is to follow, and yet he is concerned about his devoted disciples, not himself.

Good Friday still saddens me greatly. I think about all that occurred during that day—Christ standing before the threatening crowd as Pontius Pilate questions him; the efforts of the soldiers to humiliate him with a crown of thorns as the King of the Jews; the long and agonizing walk to Golgotha where he would be crucified; his betrayal by those whom he loved, and the horrific suffering he endured.
   
And then Easter Sunday arrives. The tomb is empty, first raising fear, then hope, and at last, tremendous joy, for Christ has arisen! In just a short time we discover what has happened, and we know what is in store for us. We need only believe in him, serve him, become like him as God’s servant on earth, and be his witness to others. Now—just how wonderful is that? Let us prepare to receive God’s greatest gift.

Diane Feaganes

Devotional 10-9-15

God’s Messenger

Romans Chapter 12, verse 12: “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”

Like many of you, I’m sure, I watched with great interest a lot of the coverage of Pope Francis’ visit to our country recently.  I was eager to see and hear this Pope of the People, and I wasn’t disappointed.  It was quite evident that he seemed most comfortable when he was among those who had waited with great anticipation to see and hear him in person.  There were frequent moments that tugged at my heart as the Pope blessed the disabled, the children who were handed to him by security, or whom he greeted along the street as he traveled from one location to another.

I think Pope Francis is a very wise and intelligent man.  He carefully addressed our country’s controversial issues, yet offered much for us to seriously think about.  He shared quite directly his concerns about immigration, the homeless, the imprisoned, the economy, the environment, as well as others, and of course, the state of the Roman Catholic Church. While there is contention and division among our politicians about most of these matters, Congressional members of the House and Senate listened with respect and responded to this Pope’s visit in a very positive way.  We like to think that perhaps Pope Francis made an even greater impact on Congress than we thought.

If I were to summarize what I learned from watching and listening, I would say that he has urged us to simplify our life and to responsibly care for this place God created for us.  He has urged us to more actively help those in need.  He reminded us that most of us were also once foreigners to this country. He said we must be more responsible in helping the poor and more forgiving of the sinful.  Our children and our young people, he said, deserve our attention so they are more challenged to share their gifts within their communities, and guided to have more concern for others.  Perhaps most importantly, he took time to remind us to follow the Golden Rule—to “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

Pope Francis, during his visit, became for me God’s messenger of hope.  If we take this message to heart, if we are constant in prayer and follow through with this humble man’s advice, surely our world will be a better place.

Hebrews Chapter 11, verse 1:
 “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” 

Diane Feaganes

Devotional 1-30-15

NOW IT BEGINS

 From the Gospel of Mark 1:21-28

(The Living Bible) 23 A man possessed by a demon was present and began shouting,
24”Why are you bothering us, Jesus of Nazareth—have you come to destroy us demons?
I know who you are—the holy Son of God!” 25 Jesus curtly commanded the demon to say no more and to come out of the man.   26 At that the evil spirit screamed and convulsed the man violently and left him.

 In this scripture, Jesus comes to the synagogue to begin his first public ministry, and what happens? He’s confronted by a demon (an unclean spirit) and proceeds with exorcism. This won’t be the only time Jesus perform this task.  Throughout the Gospels Jesus is empowered by God to heal and perform miracles never seen before.

Exorcism ?

With the help of Google I was eager to learn more.  As a new student of the Scriptures, I was not aware that Jesus had performed exorcism in his ministry.   www.religioustolerance.org offered this for thought:

“Exorcism is a major theme of the Christian Scriptures, recorded in dozens of passages as performed by both Jesus and his disciples.  Most Fundamental and Evangelical Christians, as well as Roman Catholics, believe God inspired authors of the Bible to write free of error, so if it is written that Jesus performed exorcism, it is true, and it happened.  
Most Christians who are religiously more liberal may be skeptical about the need for exorcism. They generally believe that behavioral changes are not caused by demons, but by familiar diseases such as epilepsy, mental illness, and substance abuse, and should be treated with modern science techniques.”

The important message from this scripture lesson, however, is that Jesus brings knowledge of the Kingdom of God to all people; God is his source of power in what he does; and as his public ministry begins, he is regarded as an authority, bringing a new approach to teaching, totally different than that of the scribes.  And those who hear him speak are in awe of him.

The message is as important for us today as it was for the disciples long ago. As disciples of Christ ourselves, we need only to acknowledge that with the power given to him by God, Jesus did amazing and miraculous things throughout his ministry. With the Holy Spirit, individually and as a church community, we can accomplish some pretty amazing things ourselves. We just need to try.

Holy and awesome God, your Son’s authority is found in integrity and living truth,

not the assertion of power over others. Open our imaginations to new dimensions

of your love, and heal us of all that severs us from you and one another, that we may

grow into the vision you unfold before us.  Amen----Taylor Burton-Edwards

Diane Feaganes

Devotional 10-10-14

Don’t Worry

Philippians 4:6-7  
“ Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Unfortunately, anxiety and worry have become a part of our everyday life—sometimes quite overwhelming, and at other times, only a passing thought.  This is the time we need to remember that God has asked us to just pray, and let him do the worrying.

I had back surgery two weeks ago, and worried about it for days prior to surgery.  It’s all I could think about.  I’ve had surgery before, and I don’t recall obsessively worrying about it.  My surgery went very well, I’m now recuperating, and I am free of pain! Before my surgery, some people told me stories of risky back surgery, and others said recovery would be difficult because of my age. And so I worried. And worried.

Sometimes we can become so obsessed with worry that we focus only on whatever it may be which has created our grave concern.  I used to tease my mom, who was a worrier. She worried continually over one thing or another.  And I would say, “Mom, before you know it, you’ll be worrying because you don’t have anything to worry about!”

It’s natural to worry. We face a world crisis of terrorism; we know human rights of thousands are brutally being taken away; and it’s rare to hear much good news at six p.m.  We’re concerned over safety when our children and grand children are at school; we go over and over our retirement plans to make sure we’ll have enough to take care of ourselves. There are always decisions to make. We’re human after all, and we care about lots of things that naturally cause us to worry.

God knows we worry.  Even though we know that worrying is a waste of time, we still worry. God has asked us not to worry, and to turn over all of our fear, anxiety, concern and worry to Him.  We need to remember to do that. Being able to do so is a blessing only God can give.

The morning of my surgery, I happened to see on my refrigerator a magnet with an important message. It was given to me on my Walk to Emmaus. I read it almost every day, but on the day of my surgery, it reminded me that I needn’t worry.  God would take care of everything.

Good Morning!

This is God.

I will be handling 

all of your problems today.

I will not need your help,

So have a good day!

Diane Feaganes

Devotional 8-8-14

Please read the scripture for today’s devotion:  Genesis 37: 1-28

Genesis can be such a challenging book, full of lots of information. But what I like to call the “short stories” of the Old Testament can indeed be full of intrigue, holding my attention.

In Chapter 37, I find this to be true in the story of Joseph, Jacob’s eleventh son. In the beginning of the story, we learn that Jacob has presented a beautiful coat of many colors to Joseph –something none of his brothers have ever received. We learn that, of all his sons, Jacob favors Joseph the most.  His brothers are well aware of this favoritism, and have grown quite jealous of Joseph. They become so angry about it that they begin plotting to get rid of him. They are even more convinced this is a good idea after Joseph shares two of his dreams with them—dreams of his greatness and power over them. This is just the beginning of Joseph’s story and, like a good novel, we want to read on to find out what happens to him.

Reading this story for the first time in a very long time, details become more significant. Joseph’s dreaming reminds me of times in my life in which I’ve dreamed, or hoped, or wished  for something specific to happen. How often have I said, “I wish…” or “I hope…”?  Was Joseph’s power and superiority going to happen because he had dreamed of it happening, maybe even wished hard for it to happen? Or was it already God’s plan for Joseph?

I have come to believe that God has always had a plan for me.  I believe He knows me better than I know myself.  And I’m quite sure God expects my active participation in His plan!  With this realization, I’ve tried to quit wishing and dreaming  (not always so easy!) and begin instead to hear what God has to say.  Simple steps, really—just  listen ,understand, and follow through. Seems to make a lot of sense, don’t you think?

Prayer:
Dear God, help me to take time each day to talk with You, and to listen. Then, I ask that You be with me as I follow through.  Thanks, Heavenly Father.  Amen