Devotional 12-31-07

Year's end all
corners of this
floating world, swept.
--Basho (1644-94, Japan)
Well, here we are, the last day of the year. In 2007, I was blessed with the birth of a grandson and heart-broken over the death of an old friend. As I reflect back over the year, I am reminded of those famous words from Ecclesiastes 3, To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die....

Looking back is a good thing but we shouldn't dwell on it. In Luke 9, Jesus told a would-be follower "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God." The past is over and done with; we need to move on....with God as our guide.

Here's a poem that's appropriate for New Year's Eve:

And I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year:
"Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown."
And he replied:
"Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God.
That shall be to you better than a light and safer than a known way."

--Minnie Louise Haskins (1875-1957, England)

Anita Gardner Farrell

Devotional 12-30-07

Since Christmas is the season of miracles I would like to share a little miracle story of my own. This is the story of how I came into a relationship with Jesus Christ.

When I was young I would hear about this man named Jesus Christ. This man was turning water into wine, feeding thousands of people with only a few fish and a few loaves of bread, and this man was even bringing people back to life. I began asking myself, how someone can turn water into wine? How can a human possibly raise someone from the dead? I didn’t realize it, but I was slipping away from the one thing that could truly make me happy in life.

When I was in the 6th grade, I participated in 30 Hour Famine. The Youth Group and I didn’t eat for 30 hours to see what it is like to have no food. One of the things we had planned to do was go to a play called The 4th Wall. The play is supposed to help you find Christ. During the play there was a transformation within me. I began to realize that this Jesus was real. During the play I saw people crying. I couldn’t figure out why anyone would be weeping over Jesus. Then my body became completely weak. I realized that I needed Jesus for strength. I needed him to survive. I prayed to God, “Jesus, Come into my heart.” When I spoke those words there was the most amazing feeling in my body. This Supernatural Jesus High made me feel like I was in a completely different world. I began to cry. The tears were pouring off my face just like all of my sins were flowing out of my body.

When we got back to the church, I went into the Chapel to pray. I sat down in the long wooden pew and picked up a bible. I opened up the book and turned to the Book of Matthew. I eventually came to the story of the crucifixion. I had always heard that Jesus died for me, but I never knew about the painful way that he died. While I was reading the story, the mental images were just unbearable for me. I saw my God standing there naked with a crown of thorns on his head, while soldiers were whipping and beating him until he fell to the ground. The sight of the blood running down his face, because of the crown of thorns tearing into his head, was too much for me. They then nailed him to a cross, and he was left hanging on that cross to die. My King of Kings and Lord of Lords shouldn’t be dying like this. I began to cry again, thinking about all of the pain that Jesus must have been going through. The part that was tearing at my heart the most was that Jesus died for me. Jesus Christ died so that I may be forgiven of my sins. I then began to thank God for helping me find My Savior that weekend, and for all of the love that Jesus showed for the entire world.

A few weeks after this experience I had feelings of doubt. I wanted some sign from God that he is real. I went into the sanctuary and sat down in front of the altar. I turned to face the back of the room. My eyes rose up to see the image of Jesus designed into the stained-glass window. I asked him, “Jesus are you real? Did you really rise from the dead after you had died on the cross?” I then began to sing the song “Open the Eyes of my Heart Lord”. As I was singing the song, that Supernatural High came back to me. I stopped singing and the room seemed very still and calm. I was standing on holy ground. I looked back to the stained-glass, and the image of Jesus seemed to come to life. A ghostly white figure of Jesus stepped out of the window and began to walk towards me. He was walking towards me with his arms spread wide as if he were coming to embrace me. The figure disappeared, but I knew what message God was sending me. Every doubt in my mind had vanished. There is no more questioning in my mind. My God is a living God, and He does miraculous things.

Matt Shideler
(a Johnson Memorial youth)

Devotional 12-29-07

In God’s Image
Please read Genesis 1:1-2:4a. How did God create us?

Our scripture lesson for today says that God spoke us into being. With voice, God created us in God’s image. There’s power in words! God imagined us into being.

What does imagine mean? To imagine means to form a mental image. An image is a picture or an imitation. God created us to be an imitation of God. God created us to be a representation of God. God thought us into being, spoke us into being, imagined us. We are a picture of God. You and I look like God. Imagine that!

I love pottery. When I go to arts and crafts fairs, I seek out the potters, and I like to watch them create. Mary recognized how much I like pottery, so one year, she got me lessons in making pottery up at the Museum of Art. I have some cracked earthen vessels to prove it. Maybe someday I’ll take some more lessons.

When you make pottery, you take a lump of clay. Just plain, brownish gray dirt. Nothing special.

The first thing you have to do is called “wedging.” You mix it, knead it, beat it on the table to get all the air bubbles out and make the mixture consistent throughout. Then you throw it on a wheel. That’s what it is called. “You throw a pot.” Creating is tough work. Especially on the clay that gets wedged, thrown, and fired in a kiln.

But when it is finished, it is a beautiful work of art.

The artist will have an image of what it is that she wants to create, and she has the gift to use her wet hands and form the spinning clay into that image. But if you inspect pottery, you will almost always find “imperfections.” Hand-thrown pottery probably hardly ever matches exactly what the artist had in mind. There are variables in the clay, in the speed of the wheel, the pressure of the hand, the glaze, the heat from the kiln…but still, the vessel is useful.

We are compared in scripture to clay in God’s hands, and God is the potter. God has an image for us to live up to. Think about that. We are imagined by God. Created in God’s image.

Do you live the life that God imagined for you?

Jeff Taylor

The Promise
My devotional scripture is Psalm 96.

Now that Christmas is over and all the hustle bustle of the season is behind us…we can now reflect on what Christmas was truly all about and the beginning of a new year. I tend to feel like a deflated balloon after the holidays are over. There is so much excitement and anticipation…especially if you have children or young children in your family. You know what I’m talking about. The air around us is magically charged with this awesome energy. Think about it…I really don’t think the “magic” comes solely from the anticipation of gifts. The magic is all about the ONE we are celebrating! He is on our minds a little more this time of year and He makes the season come alive. So, when the day has come and gone…there’s a feeling of sadness (at least for me there is).

What I found to be so beautiful about this Psalm is it reminds us that we have a new year awaiting us full of promise…“a new song” as David put it. We have a clean slate, a fresh start, a second chance…to get “it” right (no matter what that “it” may be). This puts a smile on my face. Not only does this Psalm remind us to look forward to the new year it reminds us of Christ’s return. Each day is full of promise! God never breaks a promise…and we know that one day He is coming back for us!!! What a wonderful day to look forward to! So…there really is no reason to be sad when you have that promise to look forward to everyday.

Jenny Matthews

Devotional 12-27-07

The Light of Christ Remains
9:2 “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light, to those who lived in a land of deep darkness – on them light has been shined . . .
9:6 For a child has been born to us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Today is two days after Christmas, the packages have been opened, the mess cleared away, and the left-overs eaten. Now our attention is being drawn forward to the new year. How easily we consider Christmas “over” and move on to new things that occupy or minds. However, when we look outside, the Christmas lights are still glowing. So, lets continue to live in the glow of the Light that came to earth at Christmas.

In the passage above Isaiah described a people walking in deep darkness who saw a great light. He announces that a child has been born to the Jews who would bring light to that darkness. Some believe that Isaiah was speaking of the birth of Hezekiah, one of the great, Godly kings of Judah. But, the same passage is a foretelling of the birth of the Messiah, Jesus the Christ. It was Jesus who brought light to the darkness of the world of his time and ours.

Christ’s coming brought God’s light of love, peace, hope, grace and mercy to all who live in darkness and who give their lives to Christ. As incomprehensible as this seems, it is really very simple. John 3:16 tells us “God so loved the world that he gave his only son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but have eternal life.” God’s gift of love and grace is offered freely to everyone.

Lets not let the “Light” go out with the taking down of our Christmas decorations. God has entrusted to us His Light so that as we live and work in the world our little piece will be a beacon to others.

Prayer: O God, sometimes darkness seems to overwhelm us. Send the Holy Spirit to help us turn to you so that we can experience the light of your love and grace and take them into all the world. Amen.

Maudie Karickhoff

Devotional 12-26-07

I’ve Lost My Cross

I carry a cross in my pocket. It is not a fancy cross; it is not an expensive cross. But it is a VERY, VERY special cross. It came to me this way; many in the JM family belong to another family whose common link is that they have been on a Walk to Emmaus (see Luke 24). Regardless of where their walk took place, they are now part of the Ashland Area Emmaus Community. My Walk was in Ashland in 2005 and since that time I have had the privilege of serving as part of the team that supports the retreat weekend for new Pilgrims. I was asked to serve for the event this April. When I had committed to the Community that I would help, Kim bought this cross. She carried it and while holding it would pray for me, for the team, for the Pilgrims and for all involved in the Walk. She gave the cross to me, along with its history, as I left for the weekend in Ashland. While there, as a reminder of the Walk and of the information I was responsible for delivering, I gave each person a small silver cross connected by a chain to tiny plastic foot. This symbolized Christian-Action. Because I had the special cross from Kim, I simply attached a foot to the chain of that cross – the one in my pocket. I carry it everywhere, and it is now that my story resumes.

This summer, the youth of JM (along with their leaders) attended a ‘once every four years’ United Methodist Youth event in Greensboro. The Youth ’07 event was called SPLAT (Seek Pray Learn Act Teach). One morning as I was loading my pockets (wallet, keys, spare change, room key, etc) it took only an instant for me to recognize that something was missing. I exclaimed to the room in general, “I’VE LOST MY CROSS.” I knew deep down that iPods, cell phones and Sponge Bob made my declaration rhetorical, but nonetheless I proceeded to tear the room apart in search of my cross. I looked in every drawer, under the beds, around the suitcases – I looked in clothes that I had worn during the journey > I looked in clothes that I had NOT worn. I was desperate. I did find the cross. It was in a very unlikely place. I had inadvertently stashed it in a small pocket of the backpack I carried to and from the event. Wow, what a relief.

In the time following I have veered to the other side of the street to avoid a person that I felt certain might ask me for something I didn’t want to give, I have fussed at fellow drivers for not following “my” rules of the road, I have been less than understanding with my children, WAY less (and more vocal) than understanding with some of my customers, not diligent in my Bible reading … I feel as though I should once again exclaim “I’ve lost my cross. This time it’s the cross given to me by God. The one that teaches me to love and be compassionate, the one that lights my path and shows me the way. I should search as frantically as that Greensboro morning to find this cross. I know that I must strive harder to keep my cross in sight. For in the moments that I am the furthest from God – guess who moved? It’s not the cross that is lost – it is me.

Seek and ye shall find. Knock and it shall be opened.

Steve Matthews

Devotional 12-25-07

The day is finally here…the waiting is over. Our homes are decorated, our hearts have been softened, and we are ready to receive the Christ child. In the midst of our daily lives, we are called to pause on this day to reflect…to think…to imagine.

Think about the newness of a baby…the soft skin…the quiet, gentle noises that the child makes.

Think of the smells of that stable so long ago…the fresh cut hay…the presence of animals. There were visitors that night…the angels that sang…can you hear their Hosannas? The shepherds who wanted so much to see this little boy that they left their sheep, their livelihood there in the field to kneel at his manger.

Think of the innkeeper who without realizing it gave the King of Kings and Lord of Lords the first place on which to lay his head. Think of the Kings who left their land, not really know where they were to go…but these men had faith enough to follow the star.

Imagine yourself in his presence. See Mary, ever so gently holding onto him…rocking him back and forth. Loving eyes looking down on this little child…this miracle in your midst. See Joseph…the new father…staring in awe and wonder at this new child that he will help to raise.

Imagine if you will what it’s like on that evening so long ago. There were no noises of traffic…no real hustle and bustle of the holiday. You have entered a place where it seems that all time is standing still.

Come to that place…return to that place often. Not just on this night, but on nights to follow.

Calm yourself…quiet your thoughts…quiet your heart. Spend time in the Messiah’s midst. Hear his quiet cooing…see the sparkle in his eye.

Quiet your heart…quiet your mind…quiet your soul. This is the day we’ve all been waiting for…it’s finally here.

Rev. Carol McKay

Devotion 12-24-07

Fear Not

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see – I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people.” Luke 2:10

“Fear not,” the angel said. What is the opposite of fear? While confidence may begin to express it, there has to be a basis for that confidence. Perhaps a better word is trust – and the result…is JOY.

How often we let our fear get the best of us. Afraid of changes in our lives, new situations, or even new people and their strange ways that are not our ways. We let that fear dictate our lives, limiting our possibilities and opportunities. What if the shepherds had listen to their fear and ran away?

But they didn’t. They may have been afraid, but the did not let that fear stop them from hearing the news – the Holy Spirit come down from heaven in a multitude of angels filling the sky with beautiful light!

As advent is winding down and the expectation of Christmas is upon us it is time to notice how our circles of light have multiplied (as with the Advent Wreath), so that what was once a single tiny flicker is now a ring of brightness. If darkness is frightening (a cause of fear), darkness has given way to light!

“Fear not,” the angel says, first thing. For this is the night we are privileged to draw near to the One who is the very Light of the world!

Move forward in faith; the angels point the way.

While shepherds watch their flocks by night,
All seated on the ground,
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around.
“Fear not,” said he, for mighty dread
Had seized their troubled mind;
Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind.”

Amy Inghram

Jubilation Remembrance

Getting ready to celebrate,
A birthday of someone we revere.
Salvation for all was His trait,
Yes that time grows near.

Children thinking of the “Claus”,
Of toys and all the sweets.
But all should stop and take a pause,
To remember why our hearts beat.

He was born in a field,
Near a shepherd and his sheep.
Maybe He cried or squealed,
Thoughts of wee Jesus and our souls leap.

Jerome R. Guerrein
© 2007

Devotional 12-23-07

Where you lead me

Scripture: Matthew 1: 18-25; Luke 1: 26-38

“Where you lead me, I will follow. Where you lead me, I’ll give my life away.”

These words from a favorite song of mine speak of faith, a subject I have been thinking a lot about lately. What does it mean to be faithful, to step out in faith? The more I think about it, the more questions I have.

In Hebrews, Chapter 11, Verse 1, faith is defined for us as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Another favorite song describes God as “everything I cannot see...everything I cannot say...you are everything impossible” and tells us that we will find freedom by surrendering. The idea of surrendering myself completely to God’s will makes me nervous. I think some people can do it more easily than others. The writer of Hebrews lists several Biblical giants of faith, including Noah and Abraham who followed God’s lead in very life-changing ways and, as a result, did amazing things, though what they achieved was neither easy nor quick. There are others of us who probably need to take it a step at a time. Jonah comes to mind.

Joseph and Mary, two ordinary people who are the subjects of the scripture passages listed above, took extraordinary leaps of faith when they surrendered their wills, their hopes and dreams to be God’s servants based only on a dream and a visit from an angel. Granted, these unusual events made it very clear to the two of them what God wanted and that He is amazing and in control, but to give up everything you know for an uncertain future and to be responsible for bearing and raising God’s own son? That is surrender, submission, faith beyond what I could imagine, and, of course, it literally changed EVERYTHING.

Most of us will never be called to build an ark, begin a family when our lives are nearly over, part the sea, walk on water, feed large numbers of people with meager resources, or give up our lives to save our brothers and sisters. We are, however, asked by God to step out in faith in many other ways. Look at those in our church who follow God’s leading to teach, preach, work on committees, sing or play music, cook, clean, make others feel welcome or work behind the scenes to keep our church going. They are marvelous examples of faithful and faith-filled people.

I can’t end this without mentioning the profound faith that led a new family into our church who have blessed us richly. Last spring, Bob and Jenny Matthews left behind successful careers, friends and the only life their sons, Nathan and Alex, had ever known to move to Huntington. Let me explain that they were not going to a foreign land - - Bob has family here and spent part of his life in this area. Nonetheless, based on God’s leading, they sold their home and moved here from Virginia not really knowing what was in store for them. They will tell you that God was there at every turn preparing the way, smoothing their paths. Since they returned to this area less than one year ago, Bob and Jenny have joined the church, gone on Emmaus walks, Jenny now sings with the Common Grounds praise team, and she was one of three who preached the sermon on Laity Sunday. Her next venture will be to lead an 11-week religious study in our church despite having had no real teaching experience. She and Bob have a keen sense of God’s will for them and have taken significant steps out of their comfort zones in obedience and service to Him. They and many others in our church are marvelous examples for me, and I hope that, with God’s help, I too will be more comfortable stepping out to do what He asks.

Prayer: Dearest Lord, help us to trust you and believe in you so deeply that we, without reservation, put our hand in yours and agree to follow where you lead. Amen.

Mary Taylor

Devotional 12-22-07

As the Deer Pants for the Water
Psalm 42, Luke 2:8-20, Luke 19:29-34

Two shepherds, young brothers
Sat in the field, keeping watch over their flocks.
The night was lonely,
And even though they had their sheep for company
And each other,
They knew that something was missing.
They yearned for something more.

As a deer longs for the flowing streams
As the deer yearns for water,
Their souls longed for God.
For the living God, to fill their emptiness
They had such a need of their Lord.
They yearned to see him face to face.

The night was cold
The stars were bright.
Suddenly, the heavens were alight with angels,
The glory of the Lord was all around them,
And fear filled their souls.

The angel said,
“Do not be afraid,
I am bringing you good news.
I am sharing with you great joy.
The Messiah is born!”
The angel told them how to find God’s son.
And the heavens were filled with the praise of their song.

The shepherds, young brothers,
Left behind their sheep,
Left behind their doubt,
Left behind their fear,
And went to Bethlehem.

There they found the Lord.
They saw him face to face.
They told everyone what had happened,
And their souls were filled
With the glory of God.
They had had a need of the Lord,
And it had been filled.
They had seen their Lord,
Face to face.

Many years later,
When the baby had become a man
And the shepherds had become men,
The Messiah came to Jerusalem.

Jesus sent two of his disciples
Two of his followers
To a nearby village.
He told them what they would find.
A colt, never been ridden.
He told them what to do,
He told them what to say,
And sent them on their mission.

They found the colt,
Untied it,
And told the questioning owners
As they had been instructed:
“The Lord has need of it.”

The disciples had found the colt,
But they had also found two men,
Who had been changed
When they had met the son
Face to face.

Kim Matthews

Devotional 12-21-07

“More of Him and Less of Me”

John 3:27-30: John responded, “No one can receive a single thing unless it’s given to him from heaven. You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Messiah, but I’ve been sent ahead of Him.’ He who has the bride is the groom. But the groom’s friend, who stands by and listens for him, rejoices greatly at the groom’s voice. So this joy of mine is complete. He must increase, but I must decrease.”

I’m not sure what got me started thinking about verse 30. Maybe it’s the unending media barrage we’re hit with everyday about this person or that group telling us what great and wonderful things “they’ve” done/are doing. Or, maybe it’s something a little closer to home – as in “me” feeling good about “myself” for thinking “I’m” doing a pretty good job at being a Christian, a husband, a father, a son, a brother, a member of the church, etc. Somehow, it always seems to come back around to it being about “us” and what great things “we’ve” done - doesn’t it? John 3:30 reminds me that I all too often forget that any “good” I’ve done or will do in this life is not me… it’s Christ (in me). It also reminds me that I need to keep losing more and more of “me” so I can gain more and more of Him.

The following contains parts of a sermon, “The Improper Balance”, preached by Senior Associate Dean Willie J. Jennings (Duke University) for the 2003 Baccalaureate of Duke Divinity School…….

He must increase, but I must decrease. These words capture the character of the Christian ministry. We who live in service to Christ must interpret our lives through these words. That crucial exegesis of our lives through these words can never end, because God will never bring it to an end. This exegesis is eternal.

There is a truth in John’s words so basic, so terrifying that we often ignore it. What is that truth? God does not share. God does not share our lives with our family, with our friends, with our churches, with our spouse. God does not even share our lives with us. God in Christ seeks to re-pattern our lives so that his voice and his message become our life. There is no balance here. No Christ and me, fifty-fifty, half and half. Failure forms in our life in trying to find a place for the Messiah’s life in our lives. There is no balance, only a holy imbalance.

God has come into this world to do what we cannot do. We must never forget this. We cannot resist the lure of violence as a power that allows us to get our way. We cannot overcome the horror of death. We cannot drive away the despair in peoples’ lives. We cannot transform this world into a beloved community.

John understood this – Christ must increase. We have no power to transform any life. Christ must increase. And increase he shall - God in Jesus has broken the power of death and has taken hold of all creation as the focus of God’s redeeming love.

All that remains is the decrease. The decrease gives us everything. The decrease is not about taking away, but giving away. It is giving Jesus the stage of our lives to do his work. John the Baptist got it just right. The stage must be set (prepare the way) – all that remains is the decrease.

It is not about you or me. It is about Jesus Christ. We preach and live Christ - not ourselves. We prepare the way for him. All that remains is the decrease. And with this decrease, the one sent from the Father will pour out his Spirit on us without measure. With this decrease, God’s restoring and renewing power will be seen in our lives. With the decrease, the Son of God will be exalted and glorified through our lives.

Although this sermon was given to a graduating seminary class, I think it more than applies to us all. Trying to share our lives with Christ won’t work --- we must give our lives to Him totally (a total depletion of self). The key is in the ‘decrease’. It’s what makes room for Christ (i.e., the less there is of us, the more there is of Him). It takes away the “us” which in turn takes away the pride, the boastfulness and the self-conceit. It allows us to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord. It allows God free and complete reign to work His will through us. I think that when people see ‘Christ in us’, that’s what they are actually seeing… the part of us that has ‘decreased’ enough to have been filled by Christ. In Philippians 1:21, Paul says “for me, living is Christ….”. And as John H. Jowett says about this verse in his book, “The Friend on the Road” – “what is this but making room for Christ in everything?” As self decreases almost to the point of extinction – that’s when we become complete in Christ.

I think we should all strive to be more like “candles”, as in this passage by “Unlisted”…..

“Look at a candle and how it burns. The more the light shines, the more the candle diminishes. What a beautiful illustration of the believer in Christ! The more he learns of the gospel of Christ, the more precious Christ becomes and the less he thinks of himself. One who is truly the Lord’s, shines forth the light of HIS righteousness, grace, goodness, mercy, forgiveness and truth. In so shining, self does not get bigger and more noticeable --- CHRIST does! The glory is not to self but to HIM.”

A hymn by John H. Jowett from “The Friend on the Road”:

“O Jesus Christ, grow Thou in me,
And all things else recede.”

Bob Matthews

Devotional 12-20-07

"WHY ME?"
When you hear the question asked, "why me?", or ask it of yourself, it's usually because something unpleasant has caused you to bemoan the happening whatever it might be. Some problem may have arisen in your life, perhaps a significant loss of some kind or an unhappy incident, job or financial worries. Whatever it may be you wonder why it had to happen to you.

For quite a while I have asked myself this question, "why me?" but not because of any unhappiness or traumatic incident. Just the opposite in fact. Why have I been so blessed with a happy home and family, a church in which to worship freely, food to eat, shelter, clothing, a job to do, a free country in which to live, so many blessings. I don't have to look very far to see people with problems, ill health, unhappiness, and I wonder "why me?" that I have been spared such.

I had never spoken of this question to anyone until recently when I heard from a friend of mine. As a matter of fact, she was my very first Huntington friend when I came here over fifty years ago. She told me that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer and was to undergo a lumpectomy. What a shock.

My friend and I have developed a custom over the years of taking one another to lunch on our respective birthdays. Her birthday was occurring at this time and thankfully not too long after the surgical procedure to remove the malignancy she was feeling well enough for her birthday lunch.

As old friends do we spoke of many things and in discussing her recent surgery she said, "I feel so blessed that everything has turned out well. Why me, when so many other women have been less fortunate." I was amazed that even following upon this trying time in her life she was able to ask why she was so blessed.

What's the answer? I don't know. Why do some lead lives seemingly without great trials and others face huge problems? Perhaps at this happiest of seasons when we celebrate Jesus' birth we can each wonder "why me?". Indeed, "why us" that we are so blessed as to enjoy the birth of our Savior and to know His redeeming grace. I think it is a question that doesn't need an answer, just our love and acceptance of His great gift.

Matthew 1:23 "...they shall call his name Emmanuel, ...God with us".

Count your blessings, Name them one by one,
Count your blessings, See what God has done.
Count your blessings, Name them one by one,
Count your many blessings, see what God has done.

Jean Dean

Devotional 12-19-07

Lectionary Reading: Matthew 8: 14 -17, 28 - 34

These verses in Matthew involve Jesus healing Peter's mother-in-law, driving out demons and healing the sick. Then Jesus went to the Gadarenes region, removed the demons from two men and caused the demons to enter a herd of pigs. The pigs ran into the lake and died. The men who had been healed went into the city and related what had happened. The townspeople went to see Jesus to beg him to leave. They were concerned because Jesus had caused them a large financial loss due to the drowning of the pigs. They were not thinking of the fact that Jesus had taken on the responsibility of others' disorders.

But what does this have to do with a cute little baby born in a barn?

When Mary and Joseph went to Bethlehem they had very little. They were not concerned with material wealth but the safety of the baby to be born. The Innkeeper gave them permission to stay in his barn. The shepherds and Wise Men brought gifts to Jesus. They honored Jesus and were blessed by him in return.

From the conception of Jesus, to his birth, life, and crucifixtion there is a common theme. Love and trust one another. Mary trusted what God had told her about the baby she was carrying. Joseph trusted what Mary had told him. They had love for each other and the child. Ths shepherds trusted what the angels revealed to them and did as they were bidden. The Wise Men trusted what was made known to them and did not go back to tell where Jesus was.

No one was concerned with gaining material wealth. The shepherds left their sheep; the Wise Men would surely have been greatly rewarded for telling where Jesus was.

Instead, God, through Jesus, set in motion the lifestyle that we would all do well to follow. Be loving and trusting of others. Care for other's troubles and help as you can. Listen to what Jesus is telling you - about what is truly important in life. What you have is not nearly as important as what you do. We need to do our best to bring the joy that was experienced at the birh of Jesus into the lives of others. We need to trust that Jesus will provide for our needs and is there for us always. Love and trust are more meaningful than any object. The birth of Jesus made it possible for us to have true joy in our lives and to share that joy with others.

Sue Kearns

Devotional 12-19-07

Psalm 61:
Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

The Monday after Thanksgiving in 1970 was a dark and dreary day. I was sitting at my desk looking at list of names. This was supposed to be a special list with surprises beside each name – a list to take as I began my Christmas shopping. Today I could not concentrate on the paper or have the joyous feeling I always have this time of the year. Only two weeks earlier the tragic Marshall University air crash had taken the lives of 75 victims.

Minutes after we heard the devastating news of the plane crash, I received a call to come to Gullickson Hall at Marshall University. I was President of the Marshall Faculty Wives Club at that time. When Phil (my husband) and I arrived, the gymnasium was filled with grieving, hysterical students. Phil helped carry cots from a nearby dormitory for the students, many of whom were receiving medical attention. We stayed until early morning, helping where we were needed, and when we returned a few hours later, I was asked to open the North Parlor of Old Main (remember that room?) The members of the Faculty Wives Club were to provide meals during the evenings, when the MU staff would be working around the clock, and to be present in the North Parlor when family members of the victims arrived. Later that day a member of the club suggested that a fruit basket be sent to each grieving family. I contacted many grocery merchants who generously donated the baskets, which were taken by Marshall representatives to each family who lived in town or were taken by a representative who would be attending an out-of-town funeral. Soon the services were over, but the sorrow and aching remained.

As I sat at my desk that gloomy morning, the telephone rang. A vice-president of Marshall University called with a special request. The owner of the then - Baltimore Colts, a professional football team, had donated a sizeable gift of money to be used to buy Christmas gifts for the 70 children of the victims of the plane crash. Would I buy these gifts for the children, (whose ages ranged from one month to those in their early 30’s)? Of course, I answered, “Yes.” I put down the phone and walked to the center of the room and stood quietly. Tears filled my eyes, and I closed them as I prayed.

“Dear Lord, I want to do this, but I don’t know how. I need your help. Please tell me what I should do.”

As I stood there quietly, a bright light suddenly hit my eyes. In that instant I knew exactly how to go about this new shopping. When I opened my eyes, sunshine was filling the room. I hurried to the phone and called Jean Douglass (whose husband was a Professor in the MU Chemistry Department.) I almost shouted, “We’re going shopping!”

The next morning we headed to downtown Huntington with a list of names and ages. Jean and I were guided with every purchase. As we studied each name, we knew exactly what we wanted for that child, or, if first we saw a gift that we liked, we agreed instantly on the name. We knew we had divine help as we shopped.

On Friday of that week, my living room was filled with the gifts. Each gift was delivered personally by alumni, faculty members or other friends. I never shall lose the memories of that week. Jean and I know God was with us each day, helping us to decide for each child and to see not just a name, but a surprised, happy face. I always will give thanks to Him for his guidance.

We thank you, dear Lord, for being beside us daily. We are at our best when we let you know our needs and let you guide us. Amen

Jean Modlin

Devotional 12-17-07

Baby Love

Isaiah 29: 17-24

Babies are amazing. I don’t mean amazing as in Brad Pitt looks amazing for his age or Nicole Kidman’s dress at the Oscars was amazing. I mean polio vaccine, heart transplant, and walking on the moon amazing. The way that wee ones learn to grab our fingers, tug at our pants, and look searchingly into our eyes – the way that they steal our hearts – has to be God’s plan to get us hooked before we learn how much work it’s going to take to raise them. Anyway, they are amazing, and like jelly beans, there’s always room for one more.

I didn’t always feel that way. When my daughter Anna was born, I knew that I could never love anyone else as much as I loved her. She was perfection; that was why I was so scared when I discovered I was carrying Betsy. I knew I would love the new baby, but could I love her as much as Anna?

Of course, you know the answer to that question. From the moment Betsy came into the world, she stole my heart, just as she has stolen many of yours, and my heart overflowed with love not only for Betsy but for Anna as well.

The years flew by, and the next thing I knew, Anna was married and expecting a child. Once again I felt that cold fear well up inside. Would I love my grandchild enough? Could I be patient and kind enough? Would I be able to stay awake?

Once again my heart opened to envelop that little bundle of joy. Landon became my best reason for rising each day. He became a tonic for whatever ailed me. And he enabled me to become a life-long member of the Grandparents’ Club.

The club is presided over by my husband, Don, and membership includes the custodians at Vinson Middle School, many of the cashiers at Walmart, and a plethora of church members. We meet in hallways and checkout lines to compare stories and pictures. Occasionally we even listen to one another’s stories before interrupting to tell one of our own.

What does any of this have to do with today’s scripture reading? The reading comes from the book of Isaiah, a prophet who lived more than 700 years before the birth of Christ. Reading Isaiah can be a real “downer” because he was warning Jerusalem to get its act together before bad things happened. He begins many passages with “Woe to those...” warnings. But today’s passage is on a lighter note.

Isaiah tells Jerusalem that it won’t be long before things will get better. The deaf shall hear and the blind shall see. The meek and poor will come into their own through the Holy One of Israel. God tells the house of Jacob that they shall no longer be ashamed, for when Jacob sees his children, the work of God’s hands, in his midst, they will sanctify the Holy One of Jacob and will stand in awe of the God of Israel. And those who err in spirit will come to understanding, and those who murmur will accept instruction.

How happy those parents and grandparents must have been to know that God was on their side, watching out for their children and grandchildren and guiding the parents and grandparents to teach the things that were really important!

How lucky we are to have God on our side, watching out for our children and grandchildren and guiding us to teach the things that are really important - how amazing God’s love is, how amazing God’s grace can be when they need it, and how God’s amazing baby boy was born to save them!

That baby was truly amazing!

Heavenly Father, in a time when words like awesome and amazing are used to describe designer dresses and football plays, help us to remember that you sent your son to us so that we could comprehend your awesome love and amazing grace. In your name we pray. Amen

Becky Sturm

Devotional 12-16-07

Be Patient!!

“Be patient, therefore beloved until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious crop from the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains.” James 5:7

I come from a farming community. Many of my friends in high school were sons and daughter of corn and tobacco farmers. Jim, one of my best friends in ministry today grew up on a farm in southern Illinois, and before he went into the ministry ran a huge corn and soybean farm in his hometown. My mother grew up on a farm and tells stories of picking cotton as a child. My cousins still own the farm but no longer raise crops; rather they have chosen to use the land for beef cattle and hay. I feel connected to the earth through my friends and my cousins, but I must admit that I am a city slicker. I may have lived in the county and attended the county schools, but I was a suburbanite. I mowed and raked yards instead of picking cotton or tobacco. Because of my background like many of you this verse alludes me.

Jim and I have been friends for 25 years. We met during our chaplaincy training in Columbia, SC. He was a Yankee from southern Illinois, and I was a redneck from South Georgia. We are opposites in disposition. I am impatient and want to get things done now. He is easy going and allows issues to develop. In training we were an excellent pair and found that we balanced one another well.

My friend Jim has told me stories of farming that give me a clue to this verse. He tells of waiting for rain as he watches his corn and soybean shrivel. He discusses the feelings of powerlessness as he waits upon the rain and fears losing his crops and his farm. We in Huntington worry about our grass turning brown. We have to decide whether to turn on the spigot for water. Jim talks about waiting: waiting for the rain, waiting for the life saving water, waiting for the Lord.

So here we are again. Advent is upon us, and we find ourselves waiting. Waiting for the arrival of the Christ child, waiting for Santa Claus, waiting for the big family get together, waiting for there to be peace in a world that is prone to violence, waiting for the rich to care for the poor, waiting for the “haves” to no longer be angry that there will always be “have nots”, waiting for people to stop hating others who are different.

This scripture calls for us to be patient in our wait. We are called to be patient in a society that has found itself disconnected from the earth, which teaches us about being patient. We have our email, voice mail, cell phones, PDAs, ipods, and DVD players. We have sales people apologizing when their computer is “slow”. Daily we are taught to have things our way and NOW!!!

I am thankful for my friend Jim teaching me about waiting. The image of him standing on his porch looking out over his crops as they shrivel in the dryness of the summer heat has been a powerful one for me to remember when I get impatient. Today more than ever we need to heed the words of James: “Be patient the Lord is coming.” (My paraphrase)

Rev. David Johnson

Devotional 12-15-07

We’re now ten days away from the celebration of Jesus’ birth. Many of us have probably decorated our homes and have begun the preparation for the big day. Maybe you’ve put a light in your window in honor of those who are far away…a beacon to help them find their way home. Perhaps you have bright lights on your tree to represent Christ as the light of the world. We have lit candles on the Advent wreath also representing the light of Christ entering this world. With these thoughts in mind, I share this story…

Long ago an innkeeper high in the mountains put a light in the tower-window of his inn. Night after night the lamp spread its light. The innkeeper died, but in his will he had set aside a big sum of money for the lamp. Oil was to be bought with the money so the lamp could continue to light the darkness.
Can you guess why the light was there? It was for the hikers who in the dark of night had lost their way in the mountains. When such a lost person saw the light, he or she knew, “Now I am safe.”

When I was in college, I was a sister of Kappa Phi, a Christian Women’s sorority. In our opening pledge we would promise to be lights in the darkness. Each of us is called to be lights in this world. We are called to shine in a world where people hate and fight with each other. To make our light shine, we have to fill ourselves up with God’s word and God’s grace so that all can see the light which comes through us from Jesus.

Lights in the Darkness…O Lord help us be.

Rev. Carol McKay

Devotional 12-14-07

Lights

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world.
Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." – John 8:12
When I think about Christmas, one thing that comes to mind is lights. There are lights everywhere – those popular, dangly icicle lights on houses, colorful miniature bulbs on trees, special lights around Central Park in Ashland. They all bring a special radiance to the season.

Of course, as Christians, we recognize that God provided the ultimate light for our world. In the beginning, as recorded in Genesis 1:3 “And God said, "Let there be light," and there was light.” He again provided light when He sent his Son to be the Light of the World

While pondering this devotion, this theme of lights kept running through my mind. Then one evening, my car radio was playing “Shine” by Salvador. This was not a coincidence. This is the chorus:

Lord let me shine, shine like the moon
A reflection of you in all that I do
Lord let me be a light for Your truth
Light of the World, I wanna be used to shine for you

How do we shine for God? As Christians, it is our obligation and privilege to bring the light of Christ to others. We do that through our actions each and every day. We don’t know how a smile or a nod of recognition might bring light to another.

At the Laity Sunday service this past October, the participants were given the opportunity to ask someone who brings the light of Christ to them to light a candle during the service. While there were many that I could have asked, I asked my two sons to light my candles. They show me on a daily basis the light of Christ through their actions, words and the love of Christ in their hearts.

A passage from “Praying in the Wesleyan Spirit” by Paul Chilcote expresses what I think God expects of us in showing the light of Christ to others.

“Lord, I pray that my faith in and love for you is both visible and contagious.
I want my light to shine for you.
I want people to see your love in me in such a way that they will turn to you again.”

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son to light our world. Help us see how we can be a reflection of you not only during the Advent season, but all the year through. Amen.

Shelly Shideler

Devotional 12-13-07

Be and Live
Please read Genesis 15:1-18.

In his relationship with God, Abraham, a real pioneer in trusting God, had to risk much. He and all of his descendents before us paved the way for us for the past 4000 years. God had made a promise to Abraham (his name was Abram at the time) that moved him to leave familiar territory. It is hard for me to imagine having that kind of trust in God. I like to play it safe; I want to map it out; I need to know my ETA; I can’t just take off to go who-knows-where.

Even if I took such a step of faith, how long would I wait for God? Maybe until my vacation days are used up. But after God’s promise to Abraham was made, Abraham didn’t just wake up and see God’s glorious plan revealed in front of him. No, he had to keep on trusting, keep on believing, and keep on waiting. His life took many detours and turns that might have caused us to go back to the comfortable surroundings of Ur.

In light of all of this, a single verse in the above passage, Verse 6, jumps out at me. And [Abraham] believed the Lord; and the Lord reckoned it to him as righteousness. Genesis 15:6.

Abraham believed. His belief caused him to act; but it was his belief that was of foremost importance. It sounds like something out of the New Testament, doesn’t it? It sounds like grace!

Mark 1:15: “…repent, and believe in the good news.”
Mark 5:36: “Do not fear; only believe.”
John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.”
1 Peter 1:8 “Without having seen him you love him; though you do not now see him you believe in him and rejoice with unutterable and exalted joy.”

Our believing is our first step in our life in Christ. Sometimes we get so caught up in ourselves, in our lives, in our stuff, even in church, that we don’t take time to just believe. Similarly, we’re so busy doing that we don’t take time to be. But what was it that was reckoned to Abram as righteousness? Just believing. I like to play with words. Look what happens when you break apart “believe.” Be and live.

I attended a funeral yesterday where the gospel choir sang “Take me back, take me back dear Lord, to the place where I first believed you. Take me back, take me back dear Lord where I first believed.” It was a powerful reminder to me that the place where we first believed is Holy Ground. Sometimes we move from that place, and we need to ask God’s help to take us back there, to that place and time when we believed and trusted completely.

Be and live. Believe!

Dear God, take me back, take me back dear Lord, to the place where I first believed you. Take me back, take me back dear Lord where I first believed. Amen.

Jeff Taylor

Devotional 12-12-07

Lectionary Reading Matthew 12:33-37

“If you grow a healthy tree, you’ll pick healthy fruit. If you grow a diseased tree, you’ll pick worm-eaten fruit. The fruit tells you about the tree. You have minds like a snakepit! How do you suppose what you say is worth anything when you are so foul- minded? It’s your heart, not the dictionary, that gives meaning to your words. A good person produces good deeds and words season after season. An evil person is a blight on the orchard. Let me tell you something: Every one of these careless words is going to come back to haunt you. There will be a time of Reckoning. Words are powerful; take them seriously. Words can be your salvation. Words can also be your damnation.” THE MESSAGE

This past summer was a hard one for persons to do all they should to keep their plants healthy. Now cooler weather has come, the rains have helped, but the plants reflect the neglect from the lack of rain and feeding. Our desire is to grow healthy plants, and we know they need water as well as specific plant food designed for the plant. In Matthew the implication is that we (the tree) need to grow in such a way to produce fruit. Matthew tells us that a good person produces good deeds and words. How do we become this good person? Matthew would have us to recognize that all parts of our life-our selves, our family, our work, our community are all completed in Jesus, and thru him we produce good fruits.

How many times have you heard a person say to you that they have “burn-out”? Whether it’s a project they once threw their passion into, or a marriage that at one time was happy, they now seem uninterested or lost. Lacking the Holy Spirit, or even worse rejecting the Holy Spirit we may be cutting off a part of the tree that could otherwise be fruitful.

Matthew goes on to warn us about our careless words. OUCH! How many times I have flipped off a comment without thinking. How many times did it hurt someone? Words are powerful and can’t be taken back. We are bombarded with words, words, words every day, maybe we should take them more seriously.

In the WIZARD OF OZ it is the tin man who looks for a heart. As he walks the yellow brick road, he is singing “If I only had a heart” Matthew knew the importance of “having a heart” that we might see God’s creation complete in all parts of our lives, in our work, our family, and our community. It’s our heart that gives meaning to life.

Marilyn Holleron

Devotional 12-11-07

Have you ever met anyone that you knew immediately was a Christian? I don't mean at church, I mean at work, or shopping-in your day to day life? I have met a few. It wasn't totally what they said or things that they did, although that was part of it. It was all a part of the loving attitude that they had. An attitude that gave them an aura that you could almost see and definitely could feel! An aura that came from God! How do I get that aura?
In the book God Is Closer Than We Think, by John Ortberg chapter 7 ends with a statement that really meant something to me.

"'In my Fathers house there are many rooms.' Jesus said. One of them was added on when you became his child. That one is yours, and no one else can ever occupy it. It is secret to you and him. It is your own private Sistine Chapel. It is furnished by every moment of intimacy and wonder and togetherness shared by you and your Father."

I have been teased all of my life about going off to "LaLa land." My mother asked me once where I went and after some thought, I told her "To my own little world!" She asked what it was like there and I thought a little more and told her it was very peaceful. I was in grade school at the time. Now I know where I go. I go to my own room! My God room! I can make it beautiful with the time I share with my Father. I can make it into my very own Sistine Chapel! And maybe, just maybe as I become more intimate with God, as my inner room becomes more beautiful I will reflect some of his love to others, and they will know immediately that I am a Christian. Lord let it be so! Amen.

Margaret Williams

Devotional 12-10-07

Read Isaiah 24: 1-16

This passage from the prophet Isaiah troubled me for some time. The world had become a place full of corruption and sin. Because of this, God was going to destroy the world. No person would be saved. The effects would be the same for common people as well as priests, slaves as well as their masters. Then in verse 14, some of the people are praising God, and singing for joy. The earth is about to be destroyed, and there are still those with enough faith to sing praise to God.
As I studied this passage, and discussed it with others, it finally was made clear to me. When the stress of life becomes too great, and everything seems at its end, we must continue to have faith in God. It is this continued communion with God that will help us to see past the problems, and stress in our lives.

In this season of advent, this time of waiting seems to be telling us a similar story. God is not about to destroy the earth, but he is sending his only son to forgive our sins. What an incredible gift. He sends Jesus to teach us how to reach out to God for forgiveness and guidance in our lives.

Lord, free us from our sins and make us whole. Hear our prayer and prepare us to celebrate the brith of you son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit one God forever and ever.

Hulse Budd

Devotional 12-9-07

People come to church for many different reasons. Our neighbors often come to our downtown church looking for help from the People of God. As Christians, our desire is to represent Christ to the world. How then, can we best respond to the one who asks for bread, or for a bus ticket, or for warm clothes? We can give them something to eat, and perhaps some warm clothes, or lead them to the agencies that can most efficiently provide the services they need. Sometimes, however, the need is represented as immediate, and we know that giving cash is not always the best solution; there is no way of knowing whether the recipient uses the money for the purpose intended? How can we respond faithfully and responsibly?

Envisioned as a way for the church to be caring stewards of the “least of these, our sisters and brothers, the Jim Ray Fund for Others was started to address these concerns. It provides a financial resource that can be utilized by a few key leaders in the church to help those with immediate needs for fuel, clothing, food, shelter, transportation. With oversight by the Outreach Committee, checks are written, whenever possible, directly to the institution. The initial deposited in the fund came from a dinner sponsored by the United Methodist Men to honor Jim Ray, a faithful follower of Jesus Christ who exemplifies a life of service to others. The dinner, called the “Bread of Life” dinner, was a surprise to Jim, and he describes it in the devotional that follows.

Scripture -- John 14:12-14: Very truly, I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and, in fact, will do greater works than these, because I am going to the Father. I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If in my name you ask me for anything, I will do it.

I was told the Bread of Life Luncheon was to help those who were in need of medicine, etc. Its real purpose came as a big surprise to me. In the past I’ve always known most everything that took place here at Johnson Memorial United Methodist Church. Might say this luncheon was more than a Bread of Life. It was a Jim Ray Luncheon. That’s what made it such a big surprise.

On Saturday, March 10th, I helped to prepare food, along with others who were helping out for this event. Later in the day, just about time for the staff and volunteers to leave, a man by the name of Jeff asked me to sit at one of the front tables on Sunday, March 11th which was the day of the actual event. That is, he wanted me to sit there as long as I was not to help in the Kitchen or serve the tables in the Social Hall.

On that Sunday I arrived at church around 7:30am and put the coffee on for the Sunday school class. Several people then came in around 8 a.m. as some of the food had to start cooking early. Around 11:55 a.m. people started arriving from church and it was not long until everyone was at the tables.

Jeff got up and welcomed everyone who was there. It was at this time that the choir chose to sing the hymn “Others,” which is a favorite hymn of mine. This hymn took me by complete surprise. I even tried to talk, but I could not as I was getting choked up. I was not alone in this as some other people had the same problem.

It was not very long after the luncheon until all of this was in the Huntington paper, and it even made a government magazine. There is no doubt that this was a great event. I really appreciate each one who came out to support this fund. I might add that I have received very supportive mail regarding this which means a lot to me.

The Lord has done wonders for me, and the Lord can do the same for others who call on His name for help.

Thanks to all of those who helped to surprise me.

Jim Ray

Psalm 124

Margaret P. Douroux has offered word and melody for a setting of Psalm 124, If It Had Not Been for the Lord. (It can be found in The Faith We Sing page 2053. Though the song was written in 1980, it sings and sounds like one of the older spirituals.)

If it had not been for the Lord on my side,
Tell me where would I be, where would I be.

He kept my enemies away; he let the sun shine through a cloudy day.
He rocked me in the cradle of his arm
When he knew I had been battered and scorned,
So if it had not been for the Lord on my side,
Tell me where would I be, where would I be.

He never left me all alone; he gave the peace and joy I’d never known.
He answered when I knelt to really pray,
And in vict’ry the Lord brought me his way,
So if it had not been for the Lord on my side,
Tell me where would I be, where would I be.

Isn’t it interesting that we need to be reminded of all that God has done for us? God delivered the Israelites for their captivity in slavery. God led them through the waters and brought them out of the wilderness. God showed them the way to make this new land their own. These people knew their history. They knew the power and care of their awesome God--and even they needed to be reminded of God’s gracious presence in their lives. Some things never change.

When life is going well, I can convince myself that I am in control—that I’ve got it all covered. When life is not going so well, I fret and worry, wondering where God’s help is. So often it is not until the crisis is over that I can look back to see the ways that God was there to carry me through all the difficulties as well as the good times.

“If it had not been for the Lord on my side” . . . You can fill in the situations, the problems, the joys of your own life. We all have seen sorrows and joys. But know that through it all, God was there for you – for us.

God did not stop with the activity and care the Psalmist knew long ago. God gave a Son to be with us, so that we might know in even better ways the protective, providing, caring, and gracious way of God’s love. Christ comes into the world to show us that God is for us. We are never alone.

“Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” (Psalm 124: 8)
Thanks and praise be to our God—the God who is on our side. Amen.

Dr. Mark Conner
District Superintendent, Western District

Devotional 12-7-07

Read Luke 13:22-30

"We ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets."

This is what those who will not get into the kingdom say in defense of their right to enter the kingdom. Jesus says that this is not enough.

What does this say to us today?

Is it possible that we aren't doing enough either...that we are depending on being in close proximity to Jesus without really committing our selves to Him? If we have our relationship with Jesus listed as one of many priorities in our lives, but not as the key priority out of which all other priorities arise, then we may well be like those who thought that eating and drinking with Jesus and listening to his teachings in their streets was enough. We may think it is enough, but does Jesus?

Lord, let me be wholeheartedly committed to you. Amen.

Joe Shreve

Devotional 12-6-07

The Words of Micah

But you, O Bethlehem of Ephratah, who are one of the little clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule in Israel. Micah 5:2

Although tiny Bethlehem was a city with a proud history, “the city of David” – it was still tiny, not the kind of place where you would expect “lightening to strike twice” – not a location to a second candle to shine forth. One glimpse of glory should be all the place deserved.

Yet, inspired by God, the prophet Micah had foreseen a ruler coming again from David’s tiny town, and in coming the promise of peace in all its fullness – the kind of peace the very angels of the Lord would proclaim on those same sheep-filled hills, surrounded by light.

And even more light would be evident. Micah’s ancient words would guide those strangers from afar, the wise men, to the place where the Christ Child lay.

Candlelight reflected in starlight. Even in such an unlikely place as Bethlehem the circles of light expands.

O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by;
Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light.
The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.

This Advent, let us circle around those flickering, growing circles of light. Circle around those candles of the Advent Wreath – traditionally named The Prophecy Candle, The Bethlehem Candle, The Shepherd’s Candle, The Angel’s Candle. Let these growing circles of light urge us on –
to Listen
to Prepare
to Behold
to Rejoice!
Amy Inghram

Devotional 12-5-07

Lectionary Reading: Matthew 24:23-35.
v.29: “Immediately after the suffering of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of heaven will be shaken. v. 30: Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see ‘the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven’ with power and great glory.”

I’ve had the “blues” lately. There seems to be no real cause and I’ve been able to keep up with the essentials of life so that not very many people have noticed my predicament. I get my list of things done and show up for meetings and events as before. But my heart aches. I don’t know exactly what it aches for, but I’m sure that my spirit is in need. I’ve been reading and studying; praying and listening, but I haven’t heard the answer yet.

I know that God is at work in my life, even though this time of fear and “angst” feels very much like a valley. I believe that God is with us at all times, but especially during the rough and rugged patches. I know this because I’ve read the stories in the scriptures and I’ve witnessed it in many people’s lives. I also lived through a couple of valleys, myself. “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil, for You are with me.”

I also believe that it is during our times spent in the valleys of life that God is pruning and molding our lives for some new purpose. My friend Linda was a potter—molding grayish clay into beautiful bowls and vases. She had to put a great deal of pressure on the clay to mold it into the form she wanted. Without the pressure, the new form would not appear. She then had to fire the clay in a kiln. Without the whole process of molding, drying, glazing and firing, the beauty of the clay would be missed by our eyes.

I think that the people of Israel were in a terribly burdensome valley when God decided that what they needed was a change. He sent the baby Jesus into their world to mold and fire them into new spirits. But, although they were in the valley, they didn’t really want to change and they didn’t understand why they had to endure the pressures of that time. They, like most of us, just want to gripe and complain about the valley. (I don’t really want to learn the lessons of the valley—I just want to feel “happy” again.)

The disciples didn’t understand the concepts Jesus was using to instruct them. He gave them (and us ) signs so that we could begin to understand. But just like being in my valley of “blues”, we don’t understand the meaning of the story. God must be a very patient entity, because generation after generation seems to need to learn the same lessons of surrender and grace.

As we live through this Advent season, may we look at the “pressures” of the season with a new vision. May we know that God, who loves us as His own children, is calling us to surrender all of our cares and concerns to Him. As we await the Baby’s arrival, help us to remember the purpose of the baby’s birth was and is to save us from ourselves and our own sin.

Prayer: Holy Father, we know that you love us and are always with us. We are so grateful for our ongoing relationship with You. Help us to understand that the valleys of life are meant for our growth and renewal. Continue to mold and fire our lives for Your purpose. Give us the vision and understanding to appreciate the mountaintops after our time spent in the valley. Help us to persevere through the valley of Advent for the reward of the Baby Jesus’ birth. We Love you, Baby Jesus. Thank you God! Amen.

Chyrl Budd

Devotional 12-4-07

G I F T S

When we think of Christmas, besides the birth of Jesus we think of Christmas trees, Christmas lights, and among other things Christmas gifts. But God gave us not only the best gift of all, His Son, on that first Christmas, but he has given us some wonderful gifts, our spiritual gifts.

We all have different gifts, each of which come because of the grace God gave us. (Romans 12:6)

How do you use your gifts? Have you ever wondered…
What spiritual gifts God has given you?
How you can use them?

There are different kinds of gifts, but they are all from the same Spirit. There are different ways to serve, but the same Lord to serve. And there are different ways that God works through people, but the same God. God works in all of us in everything we do. Something from the Spirit can be seen in each person, for the common good. The Spirit gives one person the ability to speak with wisdom, and the same Spirit gives another the ability to speak with knowledge. The same Spirit gives faith to one person. And to another the one Spirit gives gifts of healing The Spirit gives to another person the power to do miracles, to another the ability to prophesy. And he gives to another the ability to know the difference between good and evil spirits. The Spirit gives one person the ability to interpret those languages One Spirit, the same Spirit, does all these things and the Spirit decides what to give each person. (I Corinthians 12:4-11)

In Hebrew 2:4 we read: God also proved it (salvation God’s greatest gift) by using wonders, great signs many kinds of miracles and by giving gifts through the Holy Spirit, just as he wanted.

Since God is the giver, he chooses what gifts to give each person. He selects from his infinite pool of talents and blessings and chooses something appropriate for you. Every gift is good. You can’t walk away slighted. It’s up to you to discover what gifts he’s placed in your heart and to use them.

Perhaps you wonder why God gives special gifts. In a “fair” economy every person would receive the same gifts, in the same measure, at the same time. But God’s economy operates differently. To some, he gives the gift of teaching. To others, he gives the gift of hospitality. These are very different gifts, right? God’s family needs all of the gifts in order to function smoothly. We are dependent upon each other.

Sometimes we “miss the boat” when we don’t pay attention to our passions. What did you like to do when you were young, play house, or play school, dance or sing? Just what were your talents? God gave the passion to us and it is up to us to follow through in choosing what we will do with our life. God has a plan for each of our lives and when we do not pay attention God has to adjust his plans. Sometimes late in life, maybe after retirement, we are able to follow through and make up for the lost time. If you are young and haven’t made up your mind, be sure to ask God what he would like for you to do. Then say: “As you wish”, Lord. If you are now retired, there is still time to do what God had wanted for you to do all along. Grandma Moses is a great example of someone who was able to make a career for herself, long after most of us would have given up. We bring glory to God, when we listen to him.

God loves you just the way you are. If you think his love for you would be stronger if your faith were, you are wrong. If you think his love would be deeper if your thoughts were his thoughts, wrong again. Don’t confuse God’s love with the love of people. The love of people often increases with performance and decreases with mistakes. Not so with God's love. He loves you right where you are?

Ask God what gifts he has given you. Ask your family, friends pastor and yourself. Consider your talents and your passions, and pray that God would show you how he wants you to serve the family. Then snap up your prize and use it for God.

Gloria Peek (with help from Max Lucado)

Devotional 12-3-07

The Lectionary Reading found in The Upper Room Disciplines is from the book of Psalms:

Give the king your justice, O God, and your righteousness to a king's son.
May he judge your people with righteousness, and your poor with justice.

May he defend the cause of the poor of the people, give deliverance to the needy,

and crush the oppressor.

In his days may righteousness flourish and peace abound, until the moon is no more.

(Psalm 71:1-2,4,7)

This passage reminds us that Jesus, the Christ, Prince of Peace, King of Kings, came first to the poor, the powerless, the invisible people – those deemed to be of little or no value by society's standards.

Imagine a monarch or head of state who cannot be trapped by his own self-importance and absolute authority; who refuses to be influenced by popular rhetoric. Imagine a leader who loves God and people; who brings hope and healing, justice and mercy to those his predecessors chose to ignore.

Imagine how unpopular he would be to those living quite comfortable lives, those wishing not to be reminded of the uglier side of life existing on the other side of town, or the other side of the tracks, and especially on the other side of the street.

Imagine how cherished he would be by those he moved to lift up, to feed, to comfort, to heal – by those he called by name – using his power and authority to bring justice, to restore peace, to lead by example, and to love beyond measure.

Read the words of John Bell in his "Carol of the Epiphany:"

I sought him dressed in finest clothes, where money talks and status grows;
but power and wealth he never chose:

It seemed he lived in poverty.

I sought him in the safest place, remote from crime or cheap disgrace;

but safety never knew his face:

It seemed he lived in jeopardy.

I sought him in the spotlight's glare, where crowds collect and critics stare;

but no one knew his presence there:

It seemed he lived in obscurity.

Then, in the streets, we heard the word that seemed, for all the world, absurd:

That those who could no gifts afford

Were entertaining Christ the Lord.

And so, distinct from all we'd planned, among the poorest of the land;

we did what few might understand:

We touched God in a baby's hand.

Advent is a time of waiting and preparation, an eager anticipation of something new.

Where will our hearts tell us to look for Him this Christmas Season?

Linda Summers

Devotional 12-2-07

Are you getting excited yet? It is only 22 more days until Christmas, when we celebrate the birth of our Savior. 528 more hours until the baby Jesus' birthday will become a reality again this year, with gift giving, and joy bringing, and the worshipping and singing will ring out again. Just 31,680 minutes until we are to be as a child, and feel the joy of the light come down to earth, and know that the love and grace of God through the presence of God's Son was first found to be moving among us. Are you excited or what?

This year I really do want to be as a child, and feel the anticipation of the coming event and know that God wants each of us to respond with a childlike newness as we prepare ourselves to celebrate the birth of Jesus. So often, the Christmas season causes us to grow weary with the multiple tasks of preparing our homes, our families and ourselves for the event. This year I want it to be different.

I love the way this idea is expressed in Romans 13:11-14 in Eugene Peterson's version of The Message:

"But make sure that you don't get so absorbed and exhausted in taking care of all your day-by-day obligations that you lose track of the time and doze off, oblivious to God. The night is about over, dawn is about to break. Be up and awake to what God is doing! God is putting the finishing touches on the salvation work he began when we first believed. We can't afford to waste a minute, must not squander these precious daylight hours in frivolity and indulgence, in sleeping around and dissipation, in bickering and grabbing everything in sight. Get out of bed and get dressed! Don't loiter and linger, waiting until the very last minute. Dress yourselves in Christ, and be up and about!"

Advent is here. Prepare yourself first, so you may be as a child, anticipating God's greatest gift of love.

Joyful, joyful, we adore thee, God of glory, Lord of love,
hearts unfold like flowers before thee, opening to the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness, drive the dark of doubt away.
Giver of immortal gladness, fill us with the light of day!

New light, new joy, new love!!!!!!!! Celebrate – The baby Jesus is coming! AMEN.

Rev. Suzanne Ellis