1-31-11 Monday, 7:15 am Springfield, 39 degrees, cloudy, incoming winter storm.
Due to the state-wide winter storm advisory, the 3-day Ordained Ministry retreat in Columbia has been postponed. This would have been my first one. I now have the next three days without appointments or meetings, in which I can plan ahead, write, and recover from the intensity of the last month. The onset of a major winter storm always gives me a sense of excitement and adventure.
Isaiah 16
This chapter is a response to the previous chapter which is a lament for Moab. There are three parts: Verses 1-5 seems to be a plea to Judah from the Moabites (per Oswald), verses 6-12 reacts to that plea, and verses 13-14 dates theses happenings around 715-714, or in the upcoming three years.
Moab will be helpless even though presently she has abundance. Judah should not rely upon Moab, for one day Moab will come to Judah (and their Messiah). When a person, or a company, or a country is strong, it is hard to imagine a fall and decline. Arthur Anderson was a great accounting firm, and is no more. The Soviet Union (USSR) was mighty, and has disintegrated. In whom do you put your trust? In the Lord, strong and mighty, who will never weaken nor decline! Yes, I rely upon You most Holy Lord, not on nations nor people nor things.
I have been loaned a book entitled The Battle: Defeating the Enemies of Your Soul by Thomas Trask and Wayde Goodall. Julie and Rusty have known Trask, and this book addresses the theme I preached about the last two weeks. I will read the first chapter as I finish this time of devotion and contemplation. Thank you Lord for this day, and the week that stretches ahead.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Saturday, January 29, 2011
January 29, 2011
1-29-11 Saturday, 7:07 am Springfield, 31 degrees, clear.
Twenty-eight years ago Jan 29 was on a Saturday, and Audrey and I were in Omaha, Nebraska to get married. The service was performed by the Revs Bruce Laverman and Russ Rickert. The years have gone by rapidly, and it also seems like we have been married for a long time. My memories of not being married are similar to the memories of my youth – glimpses of incidents and people. I am thankful to be married to Audrey and to share this life together. She returned with the team from Honduras yesterday, arriving at Wesley around 4:00 pm.
Isaiah 15 – An oracle against Moab, set probably in 715-711 BC
In this chapter (continued in the next) Isaiah describes great destruction in Moab and a scene of refugees fleeing south. Moab is the region east of the Dead Sea, roughly 30 miles long and 30 miles wide. It is where Naomi and her family fled for relief from the famine in Israel, as described in the book of Ruth. Isaiah seems sympathetic to the plight of Moab, and does not have the glee expressed at the downfall of Assyria, Babylon or the Philistines.
Verse 7 : “Therefore the abundance which they have acquired and stored up they carry off over the brook of Arabim.” In his commentary, John Owalt reminds the readers that the 20th century saw more displaced people, refugees, than all previous centuries. This verse also reminds us that the human tendency is to acquire and store up so that we will never have unmet needs. The reality is that only in God can we find security, and trust in anything else is misplaced.
Guide me Holy Lord as I live this day trusting in you alone. I thank you that in this season of life there is a certain abundance, with food, clothing, shelter, and transportation. My hope is not in my house, or cupboard, car or IRA, but in you and your glorious promises. Just as the bird that I now hear singing relies daily on your provision, my hope is in you, and today I look to you for my needs, most Holy One. Just as in faith I said “I do” at the altar in Omaha 28 years ago, today I say YES to follow You for better or worse, richer or poorer, in sickness or in health. I trust you in my marriage, in my parenting of adult children, in pastoring, and in reaching the unchurched for your kingdom.
Twenty-eight years ago Jan 29 was on a Saturday, and Audrey and I were in Omaha, Nebraska to get married. The service was performed by the Revs Bruce Laverman and Russ Rickert. The years have gone by rapidly, and it also seems like we have been married for a long time. My memories of not being married are similar to the memories of my youth – glimpses of incidents and people. I am thankful to be married to Audrey and to share this life together. She returned with the team from Honduras yesterday, arriving at Wesley around 4:00 pm.
Isaiah 15 – An oracle against Moab, set probably in 715-711 BC
In this chapter (continued in the next) Isaiah describes great destruction in Moab and a scene of refugees fleeing south. Moab is the region east of the Dead Sea, roughly 30 miles long and 30 miles wide. It is where Naomi and her family fled for relief from the famine in Israel, as described in the book of Ruth. Isaiah seems sympathetic to the plight of Moab, and does not have the glee expressed at the downfall of Assyria, Babylon or the Philistines.
Verse 7 : “Therefore the abundance which they have acquired and stored up they carry off over the brook of Arabim.” In his commentary, John Owalt reminds the readers that the 20th century saw more displaced people, refugees, than all previous centuries. This verse also reminds us that the human tendency is to acquire and store up so that we will never have unmet needs. The reality is that only in God can we find security, and trust in anything else is misplaced.
Guide me Holy Lord as I live this day trusting in you alone. I thank you that in this season of life there is a certain abundance, with food, clothing, shelter, and transportation. My hope is not in my house, or cupboard, car or IRA, but in you and your glorious promises. Just as the bird that I now hear singing relies daily on your provision, my hope is in you, and today I look to you for my needs, most Holy One. Just as in faith I said “I do” at the altar in Omaha 28 years ago, today I say YES to follow You for better or worse, richer or poorer, in sickness or in health. I trust you in my marriage, in my parenting of adult children, in pastoring, and in reaching the unchurched for your kingdom.
Friday, January 28, 2011
January 28, 2011
1-28-11 Friday, 5:46 am Springfield, 31 degrees heading for a high of 58!
I had a good trip to Columbia yesterday, delivering a car to David, and meeting with a task force of the Annual Conference headed up by Karen Hayden to study the “culture of the call”. We discussed ways that we can develop in Missouri among United Methodists a seedbed of vocational calling to ministry. I am privileged to be the only gray haired person on this team, and my passion is to help raise the intentionality of how the church cultivates among its youth this call to pastoral ministry. In the evening we had the 9th session of our Wesley Pilot Leadership Experience, led by pastor Mi Hyeon.
Audrey and the team returning from Honduras got stuck in Houston last night. The customs process bogged down and they missed their flight to Kansas City. They will fly this morning, and arrive this afternoon at Wesley. I will write my sermon this morning, take some time off this evening and tomorrow.
Isaiah 14
This chapter looks to the day “when the Lord will have compassion on Jacob … and settle them in their own land.” Verses 4-21 are a taunt against the king of Babylon, and many scholars read verses 12-17 as referring to Satan and his rebellion, fall and punishment. This chapter provides hope for the people of God who are being punished by Assyria for their disregard of God, and with the promise that in the future God will restore. The concluding verse 32 states: “the Lord has founded Zion, and the afflicted of his people will seek refuge in it.”
The body of Jesus Christ, His church fills the role of the Old Testament Israel. “Upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of hades shall not overpower it.” (Matthew 16:18) As I prepare for Sunday’s sermon, continuing the theme “Overcoming This Darkness” I will review the way the darkness settles in, and the equipment that God has provided His people, including the shield of faith, the sword of the Spirit (the Word of God) and the helmet of salvation.
As the dawn breaks through the darkness this morning, as the sun rises with the freshness and hope of a new day, as my seeds of herbs are sprouting in pots on top of the refrigerator, may my steps be ordered by you most Holy God, my preparation be inspired by your Spirit, my words be full of comfort and hope, and my decisions be for the building up of your body and the developing of your disciples as together we worship You, care for your sheep, and serve you in the world.
I had a good trip to Columbia yesterday, delivering a car to David, and meeting with a task force of the Annual Conference headed up by Karen Hayden to study the “culture of the call”. We discussed ways that we can develop in Missouri among United Methodists a seedbed of vocational calling to ministry. I am privileged to be the only gray haired person on this team, and my passion is to help raise the intentionality of how the church cultivates among its youth this call to pastoral ministry. In the evening we had the 9th session of our Wesley Pilot Leadership Experience, led by pastor Mi Hyeon.
Audrey and the team returning from Honduras got stuck in Houston last night. The customs process bogged down and they missed their flight to Kansas City. They will fly this morning, and arrive this afternoon at Wesley. I will write my sermon this morning, take some time off this evening and tomorrow.
Isaiah 14
This chapter looks to the day “when the Lord will have compassion on Jacob … and settle them in their own land.” Verses 4-21 are a taunt against the king of Babylon, and many scholars read verses 12-17 as referring to Satan and his rebellion, fall and punishment. This chapter provides hope for the people of God who are being punished by Assyria for their disregard of God, and with the promise that in the future God will restore. The concluding verse 32 states: “the Lord has founded Zion, and the afflicted of his people will seek refuge in it.”
The body of Jesus Christ, His church fills the role of the Old Testament Israel. “Upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of hades shall not overpower it.” (Matthew 16:18) As I prepare for Sunday’s sermon, continuing the theme “Overcoming This Darkness” I will review the way the darkness settles in, and the equipment that God has provided His people, including the shield of faith, the sword of the Spirit (the Word of God) and the helmet of salvation.
As the dawn breaks through the darkness this morning, as the sun rises with the freshness and hope of a new day, as my seeds of herbs are sprouting in pots on top of the refrigerator, may my steps be ordered by you most Holy God, my preparation be inspired by your Spirit, my words be full of comfort and hope, and my decisions be for the building up of your body and the developing of your disciples as together we worship You, care for your sheep, and serve you in the world.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
January 26, 2011
1-26-11 Wednesday, 5:25 am Springfield 19 degrees, clear, calm.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above ye heavenly host. Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. These are the words of the doxology which I said as my feet hit the floor at 4:59. I read recently of someone with low blood pressure who was advised to say the doxology before standing up in the morning. This is a great way to start the day.
Isaiah 12
“Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; For the Lord God is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation.” (Verse 2) I echo this statement of faith, just as Isaiah proclaimed that his trust and source of strength was God. This was in contrast to faithless Israel which was putting its hopes in neighboring countries and not alone in God. Today I will live out the truth that my strength and salvation comes from God, and nowhere else.
“Therefore you will joyously draw water from the springs of salvation.” (verse 3) This reminds me of Jesus at the well in Samaria conversing with the woman at midday. He asked her for water, and implied that if she asked him he would give her living water so that she would never thirst again. I will be preaching on the passage from John at SunRise UMC in O'Fallon, commemorating the 20th anniversary on the first Sunday in March. As is true of my preaching style, I will apply this truth first to myself, joyously drawing water for my soul from the springs of salvation, rejoicing in God my Savior.
Commenting on the literary form of this chapter Oswalt says “The truths are made the more powerful because they are put in the lyrical language of worship rather than in mere discursive prose. In this way the hearer and the reader are no longer spectators or objects of instruction. Now they are participants involved on the emotional and volitional levels as well as the cognitive one.” I desire to be always a participant and not a spectator, and to lead the people of Wesley deeper into emotional and volitional participation in their faith journeys.
One of my all time favorite quotes is from Theodore Roosevelt’s speech given on April 23, 1910, sometimes titled “To the Man in the Arena”:
It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.
Guard me Lord from ever being a spectator, a cold and timid soul who knows neither victory nor defeat. May I live this day, trusting in You alone and advancing your kingdom in this generation.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above ye heavenly host. Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. These are the words of the doxology which I said as my feet hit the floor at 4:59. I read recently of someone with low blood pressure who was advised to say the doxology before standing up in the morning. This is a great way to start the day.
Isaiah 12
“Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; For the Lord God is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation.” (Verse 2) I echo this statement of faith, just as Isaiah proclaimed that his trust and source of strength was God. This was in contrast to faithless Israel which was putting its hopes in neighboring countries and not alone in God. Today I will live out the truth that my strength and salvation comes from God, and nowhere else.
“Therefore you will joyously draw water from the springs of salvation.” (verse 3) This reminds me of Jesus at the well in Samaria conversing with the woman at midday. He asked her for water, and implied that if she asked him he would give her living water so that she would never thirst again. I will be preaching on the passage from John at SunRise UMC in O'Fallon, commemorating the 20th anniversary on the first Sunday in March. As is true of my preaching style, I will apply this truth first to myself, joyously drawing water for my soul from the springs of salvation, rejoicing in God my Savior.
Commenting on the literary form of this chapter Oswalt says “The truths are made the more powerful because they are put in the lyrical language of worship rather than in mere discursive prose. In this way the hearer and the reader are no longer spectators or objects of instruction. Now they are participants involved on the emotional and volitional levels as well as the cognitive one.” I desire to be always a participant and not a spectator, and to lead the people of Wesley deeper into emotional and volitional participation in their faith journeys.
One of my all time favorite quotes is from Theodore Roosevelt’s speech given on April 23, 1910, sometimes titled “To the Man in the Arena”:
It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.
Guard me Lord from ever being a spectator, a cold and timid soul who knows neither victory nor defeat. May I live this day, trusting in You alone and advancing your kingdom in this generation.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
January 25, 2011
1-25-11 Tuesday, 7:04 am Springfield, 23 degrees, cloudy. (My mother would have been 85, having been born on this day in 1926.)
This is a busy week. Yesterday I chose to work during a significant portion of my day off in light of necessary events transpiring. Audrey and I mark our 28th anniversary this Saturday, and I have been keeping late Friday and Saturday clear so that we can celebrate. The weather will be warming up this week with no predicted precipitation, making commuting on the motorcycle possible! Tonight I give a talk at Thy Biggest Loser about my personal exercise approach. I will build upon some of my previous work on running and the Bible, and quote John Wesley, who was very fit.
Isaiah 11
What a pleasant on joy-filled surprise to begin reading this chapter! “Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse, and a branch from his roots will bear fruit. And the Spirit of the Lord will rest on Him….with righteousness He will judge the poor, and decide with fairness for the afflicted of the earth; and He will strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips He will slay the wicked.” (verses 1-4)
I started reading this chapter dutifully, following my chapter a day from Isaiah routine. I was not aware that this prophecy about Jesus would be front and center. It struck me as a breath of fresh air, an announcement of good news, refreshing my soul. The Word of God is such a blessing and a source of light and hope. It is very good for me to be surprised by this chapter, and to remember the goodness of the news that Jesus is the righteous judge.
In verse 5 it states that “righteousness will be the belt about his loins, and faithfulness the belt about his waist.” In my message from Eph 6 I mentioned the belt of truth that is one of the 6 items of spiritual warfare with which to confront evil. Given how common it is to wear a belt, it makes a very useful metaphor. I wonder if it was common in Isaiah’s day to wear two belts, one about the loins, one about the wait?
Guide me today Lord as I prepare for all that you will bring my way. I desire to serve with your Spirit resting upon me, “the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and strength, the spirit of knowledge” as I walk in “the fear of the Lord.” Today is a day of real opportunity in building your kingdom, and a day to stand strong against evil. Amen.
This is a busy week. Yesterday I chose to work during a significant portion of my day off in light of necessary events transpiring. Audrey and I mark our 28th anniversary this Saturday, and I have been keeping late Friday and Saturday clear so that we can celebrate. The weather will be warming up this week with no predicted precipitation, making commuting on the motorcycle possible! Tonight I give a talk at Thy Biggest Loser about my personal exercise approach. I will build upon some of my previous work on running and the Bible, and quote John Wesley, who was very fit.
Isaiah 11
What a pleasant on joy-filled surprise to begin reading this chapter! “Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse, and a branch from his roots will bear fruit. And the Spirit of the Lord will rest on Him….with righteousness He will judge the poor, and decide with fairness for the afflicted of the earth; and He will strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips He will slay the wicked.” (verses 1-4)
I started reading this chapter dutifully, following my chapter a day from Isaiah routine. I was not aware that this prophecy about Jesus would be front and center. It struck me as a breath of fresh air, an announcement of good news, refreshing my soul. The Word of God is such a blessing and a source of light and hope. It is very good for me to be surprised by this chapter, and to remember the goodness of the news that Jesus is the righteous judge.
In verse 5 it states that “righteousness will be the belt about his loins, and faithfulness the belt about his waist.” In my message from Eph 6 I mentioned the belt of truth that is one of the 6 items of spiritual warfare with which to confront evil. Given how common it is to wear a belt, it makes a very useful metaphor. I wonder if it was common in Isaiah’s day to wear two belts, one about the loins, one about the wait?
Guide me today Lord as I prepare for all that you will bring my way. I desire to serve with your Spirit resting upon me, “the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and strength, the spirit of knowledge” as I walk in “the fear of the Lord.” Today is a day of real opportunity in building your kingdom, and a day to stand strong against evil. Amen.
Monday, January 24, 2011
January 24, 2011
1-24-11 Monday, 7:10 am Springfield, 23 degrees, cloudy.
Yesterday was a good Sunday. The worship services went well, 2000 youth were in town for WOW, we had a good afternoon training session for Life Group leaders, and I was able to help a husband and wife who live on the edge of homelessness with some food and transportation. I enjoyed the Bears Packers playoff game, and have the Steelers Jets game recorded. I am avoiding the morning news so I can watch this AFC game today without knowing the outcome.
Isaiah 10
Assyria is being commissioned by God to punish unfaithful Israel. However, in this chapter it is foretold that Assyria and its leader(s) think too highly of themselves, as though through their own wisdom and strength they did this. Verse 15: “Is the axe to boast itself over the one who chops with it? Is the saw to exalt itself over the one who wields it?” The end result will be that after the Lord has completed His work on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem, He will “punish the fruit of the arrogant heart of the king of Assyria and the pomp of his haughtiness” (verse 12).
Reading this chapter I am reminded that God is over all the nations. In my day this means the United States, Canada, Honduras, China, Russian, Mozambique, etc, etc. This is so easy to forget with the United Nations and strong governments in place. I take great comfort in knowing that God is in charge. He may punish certain nations, including the one in which I live for unrighteous behavior, and He remembers those who seek His face, no matter where they live.
Secondly, I am reminded that when a person is used by God it is so easy to slip into becoming deluded into thinking that success is all the result of brains, brawn, hard work and good luck. Leaders must always struggle with pride and haughtiness. This chapter is a great reminder to me to recognize that I am a servant of the most high God, currently pastoring a large church in Springfield, and empowered by His might, not my own. I desire to be an ever more fruitful disciple of Jesus Christ, who worships, cares and serves the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, wherever He calls and equips me to go.
Guide me today most Holy One as I serve you with joy on this day of sabbath rest and reflective recreation. Guide me as I prepare for the staff-parish meeting this evening and the stewardship of leadership of this congregation.
Yesterday was a good Sunday. The worship services went well, 2000 youth were in town for WOW, we had a good afternoon training session for Life Group leaders, and I was able to help a husband and wife who live on the edge of homelessness with some food and transportation. I enjoyed the Bears Packers playoff game, and have the Steelers Jets game recorded. I am avoiding the morning news so I can watch this AFC game today without knowing the outcome.
Isaiah 10
Assyria is being commissioned by God to punish unfaithful Israel. However, in this chapter it is foretold that Assyria and its leader(s) think too highly of themselves, as though through their own wisdom and strength they did this. Verse 15: “Is the axe to boast itself over the one who chops with it? Is the saw to exalt itself over the one who wields it?” The end result will be that after the Lord has completed His work on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem, He will “punish the fruit of the arrogant heart of the king of Assyria and the pomp of his haughtiness” (verse 12).
Reading this chapter I am reminded that God is over all the nations. In my day this means the United States, Canada, Honduras, China, Russian, Mozambique, etc, etc. This is so easy to forget with the United Nations and strong governments in place. I take great comfort in knowing that God is in charge. He may punish certain nations, including the one in which I live for unrighteous behavior, and He remembers those who seek His face, no matter where they live.
Secondly, I am reminded that when a person is used by God it is so easy to slip into becoming deluded into thinking that success is all the result of brains, brawn, hard work and good luck. Leaders must always struggle with pride and haughtiness. This chapter is a great reminder to me to recognize that I am a servant of the most high God, currently pastoring a large church in Springfield, and empowered by His might, not my own. I desire to be an ever more fruitful disciple of Jesus Christ, who worships, cares and serves the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, wherever He calls and equips me to go.
Guide me today most Holy One as I serve you with joy on this day of sabbath rest and reflective recreation. Guide me as I prepare for the staff-parish meeting this evening and the stewardship of leadership of this congregation.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
January 22, 2011
1-22-11 Saturday, 4:39 am Springfield, 23 degrees, clear, bright ¾ moon.
I have awakened early this morning, and am happy to be up and at 'um. I am making chicken stock from a left over whole baked chicken, and will make black bean soup today from a packet (women’s bean project) purchased last summer at a fair trade store. The team in Honduras led by Audrey seems to be on target as reported in her second email sent last night. I continue to pray for each one and the experience they are having. In their honor I am drinking strong (extra fuerte) Honduran coffee, purchased on a previous trip.
Isaiah 9
The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them. (verse 2) This familiar verse, common to the Advent theme, applies directly to my two-part message entitled “Overcoming This Darkness”. The key to overcoming the darkness for these people is found in verse 6: “For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Might God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.”
Christ is the answer and the remedy for this present darkness. In my life Christ has been the source of light since I was 18. Last night I read a brief bio and description of Thomas Kelly and his Testament of Devotion (1941). In it he writes about the inner light and describes the process of seeking God, from the Quaker tradition. Earlier in the evening I attended a musical at Kickapoo HS featuring Aladdin and his lamp. This story from the Arabian Nights resonates with us as we all wish we could find a magic lamp from which a genie would emerge to grant our wishes.
The reality is that Christ is the light, and meets our needs by breaking the yoke of burdens and the rod of oppressors. The result is increase in gladness, glad in the presence of God. (verses 3,4) As I deliver this message on darkness, I must focus on the light and the gladness that comes with the presence of Christ.
Guide me Holy Lord today, as I fellowship with the United Methodist Men, meet with the family about their baptism, talk with a young adult just released from drug rehab, visit with our staff parish chair about upcoming opportunities, and continue preparing for the message tomorrow.
I have awakened early this morning, and am happy to be up and at 'um. I am making chicken stock from a left over whole baked chicken, and will make black bean soup today from a packet (women’s bean project) purchased last summer at a fair trade store. The team in Honduras led by Audrey seems to be on target as reported in her second email sent last night. I continue to pray for each one and the experience they are having. In their honor I am drinking strong (extra fuerte) Honduran coffee, purchased on a previous trip.
Isaiah 9
The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them. (verse 2) This familiar verse, common to the Advent theme, applies directly to my two-part message entitled “Overcoming This Darkness”. The key to overcoming the darkness for these people is found in verse 6: “For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Might God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.”
Christ is the answer and the remedy for this present darkness. In my life Christ has been the source of light since I was 18. Last night I read a brief bio and description of Thomas Kelly and his Testament of Devotion (1941). In it he writes about the inner light and describes the process of seeking God, from the Quaker tradition. Earlier in the evening I attended a musical at Kickapoo HS featuring Aladdin and his lamp. This story from the Arabian Nights resonates with us as we all wish we could find a magic lamp from which a genie would emerge to grant our wishes.
The reality is that Christ is the light, and meets our needs by breaking the yoke of burdens and the rod of oppressors. The result is increase in gladness, glad in the presence of God. (verses 3,4) As I deliver this message on darkness, I must focus on the light and the gladness that comes with the presence of Christ.
Guide me Holy Lord today, as I fellowship with the United Methodist Men, meet with the family about their baptism, talk with a young adult just released from drug rehab, visit with our staff parish chair about upcoming opportunities, and continue preparing for the message tomorrow.
Friday, January 21, 2011
January 21, 2011
1-21-11 Friday, 8:12 am Springfield, 13 degrees, cloudy.
Yesterday was a delightfully snowy day. I read in the morning, shoveled the driveway, built a fire in the backyard, and went for a walk in the woods. I worked at the church office in the afternoon, and then met a young engaged couple for dinner. Today I will write my sermon and work on HCI prescriptions.
Isaiah 8
Upon first reading, this chapter seems complicated. Isaiah and his wife have a baby, and God tells him that before the child can say “my father” or “my mother” the wealth of Damascus and the spoil of Syria will be carried away by Assyria. The prophetic word also comes to the people of Israel who “have rejected the gently flowing waters of Shiloah”. “The Lord is about to bring on them the strong and abundant waters of the Euphrates, even the king of Assyria and all his glory.”
Verses 11, 17, and 18 are Isaiah’s personal walk with God, 1. Not walking in the same manner as the rebellious Israelites, and 2. Waiting for the Lord, who is hiding His face from the house of Jacob; “I will even look eagerly for Him. I can apply this to my life, paying careful attention not to simply take the same approach as the majority of people in my generation and culture, but instead to seek eagerly for the way of God. Last night over dinner Jon shared that Proverbs 8:17 really spoke to him – “I love those who love me, and those who diligently seek me will find me.” This was Isaiah’s approach, and this morning I place it front and center on my outlook for the day.
Thank you Lord for your servant Isaiah, and the witness of his life and prophetic ministry. May my life point others to you, and be completely focused on serving you and diligently seeking you.
Yesterday was a delightfully snowy day. I read in the morning, shoveled the driveway, built a fire in the backyard, and went for a walk in the woods. I worked at the church office in the afternoon, and then met a young engaged couple for dinner. Today I will write my sermon and work on HCI prescriptions.
Isaiah 8
Upon first reading, this chapter seems complicated. Isaiah and his wife have a baby, and God tells him that before the child can say “my father” or “my mother” the wealth of Damascus and the spoil of Syria will be carried away by Assyria. The prophetic word also comes to the people of Israel who “have rejected the gently flowing waters of Shiloah”. “The Lord is about to bring on them the strong and abundant waters of the Euphrates, even the king of Assyria and all his glory.”
Verses 11, 17, and 18 are Isaiah’s personal walk with God, 1. Not walking in the same manner as the rebellious Israelites, and 2. Waiting for the Lord, who is hiding His face from the house of Jacob; “I will even look eagerly for Him. I can apply this to my life, paying careful attention not to simply take the same approach as the majority of people in my generation and culture, but instead to seek eagerly for the way of God. Last night over dinner Jon shared that Proverbs 8:17 really spoke to him – “I love those who love me, and those who diligently seek me will find me.” This was Isaiah’s approach, and this morning I place it front and center on my outlook for the day.
Thank you Lord for your servant Isaiah, and the witness of his life and prophetic ministry. May my life point others to you, and be completely focused on serving you and diligently seeking you.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
January 20, 2011
1-20-11 Thursday, 5:40 am Springfield, snowing, 22 degrees, public schools just cancelled.
The Honduras team has made it safely to Kansas City, and is at the gate preparing to board their 6 am flight to Houston. They drove 6 hours through the snow last night and got a “nap and a shower” at their hotel. They will be in Honduras a little after noon today. I am cancelling the Peer Mentoring group and the church office will be closed. It is a very pretty snow coming down from the northeast.
Isaiah 7
God instructs the prophet to go with his son to meet king Ahaz and deliver the message that Jerusalem will be protected from the attack of Israel and Damascus (Ephraim). Ahaz is invited to ask for a sign, which he refuses to do. Isaiah announces that “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: Behold a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call his name Immanuel.”
The chapter continues with the prophecy that God will “shave with a razor hired from regions beyond the Euphrates" … and Judah will be reduced, but those who survive will have curds and honey. God’s judgment on his unfaithful and untrusting people is integral to the message of hope and salvation that Isaiah brings.
What are the consequences today for lack of faith and trusting an entity other than God? This is a great question to ask for the day in which I live. Is it a national humiliation? Is it a spiritual malaise? Will it include an economic collapse or military conflict? I want to walk with Isaiah through these days and trust completely the hand of God to lead, guide and protect. Thank you Lord for your Word, its promises and application to life in 2011.
The Honduras team has made it safely to Kansas City, and is at the gate preparing to board their 6 am flight to Houston. They drove 6 hours through the snow last night and got a “nap and a shower” at their hotel. They will be in Honduras a little after noon today. I am cancelling the Peer Mentoring group and the church office will be closed. It is a very pretty snow coming down from the northeast.
Isaiah 7
God instructs the prophet to go with his son to meet king Ahaz and deliver the message that Jerusalem will be protected from the attack of Israel and Damascus (Ephraim). Ahaz is invited to ask for a sign, which he refuses to do. Isaiah announces that “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: Behold a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call his name Immanuel.”
The chapter continues with the prophecy that God will “shave with a razor hired from regions beyond the Euphrates" … and Judah will be reduced, but those who survive will have curds and honey. God’s judgment on his unfaithful and untrusting people is integral to the message of hope and salvation that Isaiah brings.
What are the consequences today for lack of faith and trusting an entity other than God? This is a great question to ask for the day in which I live. Is it a national humiliation? Is it a spiritual malaise? Will it include an economic collapse or military conflict? I want to walk with Isaiah through these days and trust completely the hand of God to lead, guide and protect. Thank you Lord for your Word, its promises and application to life in 2011.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
January 19, 2011
1-19-11 Wednesday, 6:30 a.m. Springfield, 23 degrees.
We are having a good, cold winter, with 3-5 inches of snow predicted for tomorrow. The Honduras VIM team, led by Audrey, leaves Wesley tonight at 6:00 and leaves Kansas City tomorrow at 6:00 am. They will be doing great work, and I will miss them! This morning we have our nifty nine staff leadership team, and tonight I meet with our Sunday school teachers and the new member class.
Isaiah 6
Having chosen to read a chapter of Isaiah each day for my devotion, and using Oswalt’s commentary, I have been looking forward with great anticipation to reading this 6th chapter. Oswalt summarizes the theories of why Isaiah’s call to ministry comes after 5 chapters of ministry. He proposes that the first 5 chapters are an introduction to the book, chapter 6 is the key to the question of how can the imperfect people of God be the agent of God’s message of hope and healing to the world (by experiencing the powerful presence of God and transformed in holiness), and that the latter part of Isaiah (40-66) illustrates the presentation of the Gospel in an imperfect world.
Oswalt is convinced that the overarching theme of Isaiah is servanthood. “God has called all people, but particularly his own people, to lay down their self-exaltation and be dependent upon him , to become evidence of his character and deliverance in order that the whole world might know him as he is and thus be delivered from their own destruction.” (p. 54)
Reading chapter 6, and contemplating our upcoming series “Life Hurts, God Heals” I see great application for the book of Isaiah. The first five chapters demonstrate how Israel (and each of us) tends to trust only ourselves, arrogantly behaving as though we have all the answers and can figure out what is needed. The remedy for this haughtiness is a direct encounter with the holiness and the presence of God. In this context, the “uncleanness” of our lips (and our lives) becomes evident, we experience God’s gracious touch, and the rest of our lives are devoted to service.
Guide me Holy Lord, as today I serve you in the power of your Holy Spirit, a man of unclean lips, touched by your grace, answering your call to communicate your love and your light in this generation.
We are having a good, cold winter, with 3-5 inches of snow predicted for tomorrow. The Honduras VIM team, led by Audrey, leaves Wesley tonight at 6:00 and leaves Kansas City tomorrow at 6:00 am. They will be doing great work, and I will miss them! This morning we have our nifty nine staff leadership team, and tonight I meet with our Sunday school teachers and the new member class.
Isaiah 6
Having chosen to read a chapter of Isaiah each day for my devotion, and using Oswalt’s commentary, I have been looking forward with great anticipation to reading this 6th chapter. Oswalt summarizes the theories of why Isaiah’s call to ministry comes after 5 chapters of ministry. He proposes that the first 5 chapters are an introduction to the book, chapter 6 is the key to the question of how can the imperfect people of God be the agent of God’s message of hope and healing to the world (by experiencing the powerful presence of God and transformed in holiness), and that the latter part of Isaiah (40-66) illustrates the presentation of the Gospel in an imperfect world.
Oswalt is convinced that the overarching theme of Isaiah is servanthood. “God has called all people, but particularly his own people, to lay down their self-exaltation and be dependent upon him , to become evidence of his character and deliverance in order that the whole world might know him as he is and thus be delivered from their own destruction.” (p. 54)
Reading chapter 6, and contemplating our upcoming series “Life Hurts, God Heals” I see great application for the book of Isaiah. The first five chapters demonstrate how Israel (and each of us) tends to trust only ourselves, arrogantly behaving as though we have all the answers and can figure out what is needed. The remedy for this haughtiness is a direct encounter with the holiness and the presence of God. In this context, the “uncleanness” of our lips (and our lives) becomes evident, we experience God’s gracious touch, and the rest of our lives are devoted to service.
Guide me Holy Lord, as today I serve you in the power of your Holy Spirit, a man of unclean lips, touched by your grace, answering your call to communicate your love and your light in this generation.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
January 18, 2011
1-18-11 Tuesday, 6:17 am Springfield, 36 degrees, cloudy, chance of flurries.
Matthew 5:1-11 is the beginning section of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. In these verses he describes fundamental principles for living that result in peace, contentment, and a share in God’s kingdom. Beginning in February we will examine these “Beatittudes” as the foundation for the “Life Hurts, God Heals” series. Both in the weekly Sunday morning themes, and in the life group sessions the words of Jesus will be applied to our daily lives.
I have observed that everyone has acquired scabs and scars from mistakes and misjudgements along the way. One of the major miscalculations that people make is to ignore the power of God to heal and transform, as they try to cover up and compensate for disappointments and shortcoming. As the word of God is intentionally applied to every area of life, healing begins and hope dawns for the habits and addictions that have constrained us.
Last Sunday (January 16) was a beautiful experience of prayer and commitment led by the Rev. Sherry Habben. The altar rails were covered with signed prayer commitments as we lined up and were anointed with oil. God is beginning a new work, and I look forward to all the ways that Wesley UMC will be the body of Christ which develops more fruitful disciples of Jesus Christ who worship, care and serve.
Matthew 5:1-11 is the beginning section of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. In these verses he describes fundamental principles for living that result in peace, contentment, and a share in God’s kingdom. Beginning in February we will examine these “Beatittudes” as the foundation for the “Life Hurts, God Heals” series. Both in the weekly Sunday morning themes, and in the life group sessions the words of Jesus will be applied to our daily lives.
I have observed that everyone has acquired scabs and scars from mistakes and misjudgements along the way. One of the major miscalculations that people make is to ignore the power of God to heal and transform, as they try to cover up and compensate for disappointments and shortcoming. As the word of God is intentionally applied to every area of life, healing begins and hope dawns for the habits and addictions that have constrained us.
Last Sunday (January 16) was a beautiful experience of prayer and commitment led by the Rev. Sherry Habben. The altar rails were covered with signed prayer commitments as we lined up and were anointed with oil. God is beginning a new work, and I look forward to all the ways that Wesley UMC will be the body of Christ which develops more fruitful disciples of Jesus Christ who worship, care and serve.
Monday, January 17, 2011
January 17, 2011
1-17-11 Monday, Martin Luther King Day, 32 degrees, cloudy, wind 15 mph out of the south, bringing high temp to around 47 today.
We had a fruitfull weekend at Wesley, with Upward basketball and five worship services (including the 9:30 Children's worship in Cundoff Hall)and the congregation responded well to the call to prayer issued by Sherri Habben. In the afternoon we had 30+ leaders involved in the first of three training sessions for the Spring season of “Life Hurts, God Heals”. Today we have the funeral for Hugh Olson at 2:00. On Saturday night I drove to Clinton to pick up a very precious family whose car had broken down, and we got back to Springfield around 2:00 am. I was so glad they called and that I was available. Yesterday went okay on 3 ½ hours sleep, and I can still feel it this morning.
Isaiah 5
The prophet uses the metaphor of a well planted vineyard that produces worthless grapes to describe God’s chosen people. Throughout this chapter the writer states that “the vineyard of the Lord of hosts is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah his delightful plant.” (verse 7). Verses 18 – 23 contain several “woes”, including “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness; … Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and clever in their own sight!”
This chapter could describe the mainline protestant church in which I grew up. That church is fading fast, and a more authentic body of Christ is replacing it slowly. As a leader in the church, I benefit much from reading Isaiah, and paying attention to the warnings for religious readers and faith communities who have been blessed by God in the past, and have drifted. Guide me today Holy Lord as I serve and lead.
We had a fruitfull weekend at Wesley, with Upward basketball and five worship services (including the 9:30 Children's worship in Cundoff Hall)and the congregation responded well to the call to prayer issued by Sherri Habben. In the afternoon we had 30+ leaders involved in the first of three training sessions for the Spring season of “Life Hurts, God Heals”. Today we have the funeral for Hugh Olson at 2:00. On Saturday night I drove to Clinton to pick up a very precious family whose car had broken down, and we got back to Springfield around 2:00 am. I was so glad they called and that I was available. Yesterday went okay on 3 ½ hours sleep, and I can still feel it this morning.
Isaiah 5
The prophet uses the metaphor of a well planted vineyard that produces worthless grapes to describe God’s chosen people. Throughout this chapter the writer states that “the vineyard of the Lord of hosts is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah his delightful plant.” (verse 7). Verses 18 – 23 contain several “woes”, including “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness; … Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and clever in their own sight!”
This chapter could describe the mainline protestant church in which I grew up. That church is fading fast, and a more authentic body of Christ is replacing it slowly. As a leader in the church, I benefit much from reading Isaiah, and paying attention to the warnings for religious readers and faith communities who have been blessed by God in the past, and have drifted. Guide me today Holy Lord as I serve and lead.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
January 15, 2011
1-15-11 Saturday, 7:07 am Springfield, 31 degrees, clear.
Yesterday we celebrated Audrey’s birthday. From breakfast at one of her favorite restaurants, to a mid-day funeral at Wesley, and then a movie, dinner, and shopping for the Honduras trip, (which she leads this Wednesday)we had a full day. I remember fondly her 25th birthday and the card I made which said “25 is O.K.”
Today I have the morning flexible, to work around the house, write, and exercise. In the afternoon and early evening I will present the Upward halftime devotion to the 4 games that I did not do last Saturday. During the time I have between halftime devotions I will make telephone calls, work on HCI prescriptions and visit with people who are in the building for Upward.
Isaiah 3 (I am reading through Isaiah one chapter at a time, and referring to the commentary by John Oswalt.)
In this chapter the prophet continues his lament about the downfall of Israel. Rather than capable leaders, boys will be in charge, and will be inept. Oswald connects this chapter with the previous one under the theme of how foolish it is to trust in human leaders. The natural tendency of humans is to place trust and confidence in someone or something. And when this is not placed in God, but in people or things, there is ultimately failure and disappointment. I certainly observe this in my generation – the tendency to place confidence, trust in people and technology, and then to be disappointed when either of these fail.
As a leader of the church, it is so important for me to trust God completely, to follow His lead carefully, and to have a proper view of my role as one of the undershepherds, serving Christ through His bride, the Church. Guide me today most holy Lord as I walk this earthly path and serve you with all my body, mind, soul and strength.
Yesterday we celebrated Audrey’s birthday. From breakfast at one of her favorite restaurants, to a mid-day funeral at Wesley, and then a movie, dinner, and shopping for the Honduras trip, (which she leads this Wednesday)we had a full day. I remember fondly her 25th birthday and the card I made which said “25 is O.K.”
Today I have the morning flexible, to work around the house, write, and exercise. In the afternoon and early evening I will present the Upward halftime devotion to the 4 games that I did not do last Saturday. During the time I have between halftime devotions I will make telephone calls, work on HCI prescriptions and visit with people who are in the building for Upward.
Isaiah 3 (I am reading through Isaiah one chapter at a time, and referring to the commentary by John Oswalt.)
In this chapter the prophet continues his lament about the downfall of Israel. Rather than capable leaders, boys will be in charge, and will be inept. Oswald connects this chapter with the previous one under the theme of how foolish it is to trust in human leaders. The natural tendency of humans is to place trust and confidence in someone or something. And when this is not placed in God, but in people or things, there is ultimately failure and disappointment. I certainly observe this in my generation – the tendency to place confidence, trust in people and technology, and then to be disappointed when either of these fail.
As a leader of the church, it is so important for me to trust God completely, to follow His lead carefully, and to have a proper view of my role as one of the undershepherds, serving Christ through His bride, the Church. Guide me today most holy Lord as I walk this earthly path and serve you with all my body, mind, soul and strength.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
January 13, 2011
1-13-11 Thursday, 5:48 am Springfield, 1 degree, calm, clear.
We had a great new member class last night. We struggled with the technology of the video on the history of Wesley, but finally got a dvd on a tv to work. Our executive leadership team met yesterday for the first time this year and considered several items that will impact the ministries of the church in 2011. I sat in on a webinar put on by the coach training organization “Internal impact” on maximizing your strengths. It was well presented, and the technology worked both on the “go to meeting” software, and the telephone conference call.
I will deviate from the One Year Bible today and begin reading Isaiah, along with John Oswalt’s two-volume commentary.
Isaiah 1
This first chapter of the prophet’s book is an introduction and an indictment. The people chosen by God have ignored Him, going through the motions of a religious life, but not recognizing that God is real and present. “An ox knows its owner, and a donkey its master’s manger, but Israel does not know, my people do not understand.” (verse 3) I grew up in a faith community that essentially practiced “rote religion” and did not know or understand God. This is a continual challenge for the people of God, to truly know the Lord, and guard against just going through the motions.
On Sunday, we will experience a day of prayer, led by Sherry Habben. My hope is that this will be a true experience of responding to God, and experiencing His power, love, and real presence. Guide me today Lord as I live in your presence, pursuing your will and purposes through your bride the Church.
We had a great new member class last night. We struggled with the technology of the video on the history of Wesley, but finally got a dvd on a tv to work. Our executive leadership team met yesterday for the first time this year and considered several items that will impact the ministries of the church in 2011. I sat in on a webinar put on by the coach training organization “Internal impact” on maximizing your strengths. It was well presented, and the technology worked both on the “go to meeting” software, and the telephone conference call.
I will deviate from the One Year Bible today and begin reading Isaiah, along with John Oswalt’s two-volume commentary.
Isaiah 1
This first chapter of the prophet’s book is an introduction and an indictment. The people chosen by God have ignored Him, going through the motions of a religious life, but not recognizing that God is real and present. “An ox knows its owner, and a donkey its master’s manger, but Israel does not know, my people do not understand.” (verse 3) I grew up in a faith community that essentially practiced “rote religion” and did not know or understand God. This is a continual challenge for the people of God, to truly know the Lord, and guard against just going through the motions.
On Sunday, we will experience a day of prayer, led by Sherry Habben. My hope is that this will be a true experience of responding to God, and experiencing His power, love, and real presence. Guide me today Lord as I live in your presence, pursuing your will and purposes through your bride the Church.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
January 12, 2011
1-12-11 Wednesday, 6:20 am Springfield, 2 degrees, wind 7 mph, clear
It is a cold winter morning. Springfield schools are not cancelled. Last night there was much activity at church with Upward practices, leadership training, etc. On the way home, subdivision roads were glazed from the packed snow, main roads were fine. I have breakfast today with a pastor, lunch with another pastor, and dinner at WOW. Lots of good work to be done moving forward in ministry.
Genesis 26:17-27:43
Isaac and Rebekah, Jacob and Esau live among the Philistines and Hittites. Jacob marries two Hittite wives who cause trouble for Isaac and Rebekah. Jacob tricks Isaac into giving him the blessing, and Esau is enraged, planning to kill Jacob after their father dies. Rebekah will send Jacob back to her brother’s place until Esau cools off. In these verses we have the strife and struggles of a family trying to make it done life’s path. Some success and blessing, some strife and misery from unhealthy relationship skills. Each of these four persons could have done better. May we learn from their mistakes in our journey.
Isaac was blessed as he followed his faithful father Abraham. Isaac erred as a parent, showing favoritism and poor judgement. God would work through this dysfunctional family, giving Jacob 12 sons who would originate the 12 tribes of Israel. From this I conclude 1. God blesses faithfulness. For each fully devoted follower of Christ there is a blessing. 2. God uses imperfect people, and there is hope for anyone in God’s plan. Guide me today Lord as I journey in this land, seeking to be faithful and living with courage.
It is a cold winter morning. Springfield schools are not cancelled. Last night there was much activity at church with Upward practices, leadership training, etc. On the way home, subdivision roads were glazed from the packed snow, main roads were fine. I have breakfast today with a pastor, lunch with another pastor, and dinner at WOW. Lots of good work to be done moving forward in ministry.
Genesis 26:17-27:43
Isaac and Rebekah, Jacob and Esau live among the Philistines and Hittites. Jacob marries two Hittite wives who cause trouble for Isaac and Rebekah. Jacob tricks Isaac into giving him the blessing, and Esau is enraged, planning to kill Jacob after their father dies. Rebekah will send Jacob back to her brother’s place until Esau cools off. In these verses we have the strife and struggles of a family trying to make it done life’s path. Some success and blessing, some strife and misery from unhealthy relationship skills. Each of these four persons could have done better. May we learn from their mistakes in our journey.
Isaac was blessed as he followed his faithful father Abraham. Isaac erred as a parent, showing favoritism and poor judgement. God would work through this dysfunctional family, giving Jacob 12 sons who would originate the 12 tribes of Israel. From this I conclude 1. God blesses faithfulness. For each fully devoted follower of Christ there is a blessing. 2. God uses imperfect people, and there is hope for anyone in God’s plan. Guide me today Lord as I journey in this land, seeking to be faithful and living with courage.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
January 11, 2011
There is a season of prayer unfolding within the Wesley faith community. On Sunday, Jan 2 Pastor Mi Hyeon concluded her sermon with the congregation using the Wesleyan Covenant Prayer. This past Sunday I developed my own version of this prayer, and on this coming Sunday, Jan 16 the Sunday morning service will be themed around prayer, with an extended opportunity for prayer and being anointed with oil in each worship service. God is at work among us, leading us deeper into the heart of spiritual living.
On Sunday, as I preached on the words of Jesus from Matthew 16: 24-26, I encountered the translation by Eugene Peterson which expressed verse 24 in a unique way: “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am.” I began to reflect upon how hard it is for me to be a passenger in a car, and not the driver. I remembered the response by mature Christian leaders to the bumper sticker that used to say “God is my copilot” who observed –“then you are in the wrong seat!” I have developed my version of Wesley’s covenant prayer:
I am no longer the driver, you are.
Put me in the passenger seat, or the back seat.
Put the car in drive, reverse, or let us sit idling away.
Let the gas tank be full, half full or on empty.
Let me ride in a hot, fancy car or a clunker.
I freely and heartily yield all things to your pleasure and disposal.
On Sunday, as I preached on the words of Jesus from Matthew 16: 24-26, I encountered the translation by Eugene Peterson which expressed verse 24 in a unique way: “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am.” I began to reflect upon how hard it is for me to be a passenger in a car, and not the driver. I remembered the response by mature Christian leaders to the bumper sticker that used to say “God is my copilot” who observed –“then you are in the wrong seat!” I have developed my version of Wesley’s covenant prayer:
I am no longer the driver, you are.
Put me in the passenger seat, or the back seat.
Put the car in drive, reverse, or let us sit idling away.
Let the gas tank be full, half full or on empty.
Let me ride in a hot, fancy car or a clunker.
I freely and heartily yield all things to your pleasure and disposal.
Monday, January 10, 2011
January 10, 2011
1-10-11 Monday, 6:35 am Springfield, 24 degrees, cloudy, flurries.
In the Ozarks today and tomorrow snow is in the forecast. I really enjoy winter weather! When snow and frigid temperatures develop, there is a certain energy and focus that I experience. Sometimes it feels like my Canadian heritage emerges, other times it feels like the joy that most children experience with snowfall. Today is my sabbath, after 5 full days of ministry as the new year has begun. I will read, study, begin some writing, work around the house, and begin to organize income taxes and personal financial records. Exercise will be included in my day as will rest.
Gen 23 – 24:51 (One Year Bible, now on my Droid!)
Chapter 23 records the death of Sarah and the efforts of Abraham to purchase a burial cave. Chapter 24 tells of the search by Abraham’s servant for a wife for Abraham’s son, Isaac. The servant trusts God, who leads the servant to find Rebekah, who agrees to become Isaac’s wife, sight unseen. They marry and Isaac is comforted after his mother’s death. As I read this, and know what Isaac and Rebekah have to look forward to, the joy of this wonderful heavenly match is seasoned with the difficulties and struggles they will face with the conflict between their two sons. God redeems even this, and uses the union of Isaac and Rebekah in the forming of his holy people.
I am yours today, most holy Lord. May the ordinariness of my life be an instrument in the building of your kingdom throughout this generation.
In the Ozarks today and tomorrow snow is in the forecast. I really enjoy winter weather! When snow and frigid temperatures develop, there is a certain energy and focus that I experience. Sometimes it feels like my Canadian heritage emerges, other times it feels like the joy that most children experience with snowfall. Today is my sabbath, after 5 full days of ministry as the new year has begun. I will read, study, begin some writing, work around the house, and begin to organize income taxes and personal financial records. Exercise will be included in my day as will rest.
Gen 23 – 24:51 (One Year Bible, now on my Droid!)
Chapter 23 records the death of Sarah and the efforts of Abraham to purchase a burial cave. Chapter 24 tells of the search by Abraham’s servant for a wife for Abraham’s son, Isaac. The servant trusts God, who leads the servant to find Rebekah, who agrees to become Isaac’s wife, sight unseen. They marry and Isaac is comforted after his mother’s death. As I read this, and know what Isaac and Rebekah have to look forward to, the joy of this wonderful heavenly match is seasoned with the difficulties and struggles they will face with the conflict between their two sons. God redeems even this, and uses the union of Isaac and Rebekah in the forming of his holy people.
I am yours today, most holy Lord. May the ordinariness of my life be an instrument in the building of your kingdom throughout this generation.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
January 9, 2011
1-9-11 Sunday, 5:55 am Springfield, 19 degrees, cloudy.
This morning the church will gather all over the world – some in houses, some outside, some in historic cathedrals, some in new facilities. The Word of God will be preached; children, youth and adults will be formed as disciples, with the resulting salt and light being sent into the world. At Wesley UMC in Springfield, I have the privilege of preaching the Word today, as 1000 people will gather throughout the morning. Matthew 16:24-26 will be my text, “Losing and Gaining fro Christ” will be my title.
Guide me most holy Lord as I interpret and apply the message of the cross and self-denial. May this cold, January morning be spiritually significant in lives which will transform the world by generosity and discipline.
This morning the church will gather all over the world – some in houses, some outside, some in historic cathedrals, some in new facilities. The Word of God will be preached; children, youth and adults will be formed as disciples, with the resulting salt and light being sent into the world. At Wesley UMC in Springfield, I have the privilege of preaching the Word today, as 1000 people will gather throughout the morning. Matthew 16:24-26 will be my text, “Losing and Gaining fro Christ” will be my title.
Guide me most holy Lord as I interpret and apply the message of the cross and self-denial. May this cold, January morning be spiritually significant in lives which will transform the world by generosity and discipline.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
January 8, 2011
1-8-11 Saturday, 6:24 am clear and cold, 22 degrees.
The Upward season began last night with 4 teams of 5th and 6th grade boys playing full court in the gym. Audrey and I went out to an early dinner at a Mexican restaurant and then stopped by the church. I led the two half-time devotions, and will do so again this morning. Today there will be 16 games involving 32 teams. I also have a wedding at Wesley this afternoon. Tomorrow will be a glorious Lord’s day involving worship, leadership, visioning, and a meet-the-pastors coffee.
Psalm 8
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth, Who have displayed your splendor above the heavens!” (verse 1) This psalm begins with a focus upon God in his majesty, splendor and excellency. George Wood writing in his wonderful A Psalm in Your Heart divides this psalm into three parts - God’s place, our place, and the vision (of God) that compels us.
In verse 3 the writer, David, contemplates the heavens, the work of God’s fingers, including the moon and the stars. I have a great “app” for my Droid called Google Sky Map which identifies all the heavenly bodies visible to the naked eye. By holding it up to a bright heavenly object, it labels it as Jupiter or Mars, or names the star and constellation. As much as I am amazed by this technology, I am much more amazed at the creation of God, its majesty, vastness, orderliness, mystery and infinitude.
Verse 4 asks the question “what are mere mortals that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?” Given the majesty of God, and the enormity of creation, humans seem inconsequential. However, verses 5-8 describe the incredible role that God has given humans, above all creation, and just lower than God.
Verse 9 restates verse 1, and frames the whole psalm with the statement “Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
O Lord, my Lord, as I recognize the excellence of your name, character, person and being, I am humbled by your involvement in my life, knowing the number of hairs on my head. I will focus on your majesty today, mindful of the role you have given me within your creation and within the body of those who worship and serve you alone, in the most precious name of Jesus, Amen.
The Upward season began last night with 4 teams of 5th and 6th grade boys playing full court in the gym. Audrey and I went out to an early dinner at a Mexican restaurant and then stopped by the church. I led the two half-time devotions, and will do so again this morning. Today there will be 16 games involving 32 teams. I also have a wedding at Wesley this afternoon. Tomorrow will be a glorious Lord’s day involving worship, leadership, visioning, and a meet-the-pastors coffee.
Psalm 8
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth, Who have displayed your splendor above the heavens!” (verse 1) This psalm begins with a focus upon God in his majesty, splendor and excellency. George Wood writing in his wonderful A Psalm in Your Heart divides this psalm into three parts - God’s place, our place, and the vision (of God) that compels us.
In verse 3 the writer, David, contemplates the heavens, the work of God’s fingers, including the moon and the stars. I have a great “app” for my Droid called Google Sky Map which identifies all the heavenly bodies visible to the naked eye. By holding it up to a bright heavenly object, it labels it as Jupiter or Mars, or names the star and constellation. As much as I am amazed by this technology, I am much more amazed at the creation of God, its majesty, vastness, orderliness, mystery and infinitude.
Verse 4 asks the question “what are mere mortals that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?” Given the majesty of God, and the enormity of creation, humans seem inconsequential. However, verses 5-8 describe the incredible role that God has given humans, above all creation, and just lower than God.
Verse 9 restates verse 1, and frames the whole psalm with the statement “Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
O Lord, my Lord, as I recognize the excellence of your name, character, person and being, I am humbled by your involvement in my life, knowing the number of hairs on my head. I will focus on your majesty today, mindful of the role you have given me within your creation and within the body of those who worship and serve you alone, in the most precious name of Jesus, Amen.
Friday, January 7, 2011
January 7, 2011
1-7-11 Friday, 6:57 am Springfield, 36 degrees, partly cloudy
Today I will continue to develop my message for this weekend, and I will write the devotional I will give at halftime tonight and tomorrow for the first day of Upward basketball. Having been away for a weekend (in Los Angeles), I have a busy weekend ahead, with Upward devotions tonight and tomorrow, a wedding tomorrow afternoon, and the 4 worship services on Sunday, followed by the 3:00 Igniting leaders meeting, and the 4:00 Meet the Pastors coffee. Guide me today Lord as I prepare and get ready for these pastoral roles.
Matthew 6:1-24
Instructions on giving alms, prayer (including the Lord’s prayer) and fasting. All of these are to be done confidentially, not for public notice and recognition. These three practices are critical to a healthy spiritual life, and I must continue to cultivate them in my life in 2011, and encourage them in the lives of the congregation.
Verses 19-24 address the topic of possessions, and money. Storing up treasures on earth is futile, investing in heaven pays eternal dividends. Today we close on the refinancing of this house. We have secured an interest rate of 3.375 on a ten-year mortgage. I am very conscious of possessions, investments and the principal that “no one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” (verse 24).
Guide me today most Holy Lord as I manage the earthly assets you have entrusted to me, even as I serve you fully, being devoted to you in love and complete surrender. Guide me as I “lose my life for your sake”, gaining eternal life and living into forever in your presence with the lasting fruit of a well-lived finite life on earth.
Today I will continue to develop my message for this weekend, and I will write the devotional I will give at halftime tonight and tomorrow for the first day of Upward basketball. Having been away for a weekend (in Los Angeles), I have a busy weekend ahead, with Upward devotions tonight and tomorrow, a wedding tomorrow afternoon, and the 4 worship services on Sunday, followed by the 3:00 Igniting leaders meeting, and the 4:00 Meet the Pastors coffee. Guide me today Lord as I prepare and get ready for these pastoral roles.
Matthew 6:1-24
Instructions on giving alms, prayer (including the Lord’s prayer) and fasting. All of these are to be done confidentially, not for public notice and recognition. These three practices are critical to a healthy spiritual life, and I must continue to cultivate them in my life in 2011, and encourage them in the lives of the congregation.
Verses 19-24 address the topic of possessions, and money. Storing up treasures on earth is futile, investing in heaven pays eternal dividends. Today we close on the refinancing of this house. We have secured an interest rate of 3.375 on a ten-year mortgage. I am very conscious of possessions, investments and the principal that “no one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” (verse 24).
Guide me today most Holy Lord as I manage the earthly assets you have entrusted to me, even as I serve you fully, being devoted to you in love and complete surrender. Guide me as I “lose my life for your sake”, gaining eternal life and living into forever in your presence with the lasting fruit of a well-lived finite life on earth.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
January 6, 2011
1-6-11 Thursday, 6:25 am Springfield, 27 degrees, clear.
Yesterday was my first day back in the office, and it was very good to return to the labor of pastoring. Our executive staff had a great bi-monthly meeting followed by a meeting with our pastors in the afternoon. The WOW evening meal was tasty with good conversations around the tables, and the 7:00 training of referees for Upward basketball was a good way for me to connect with that ministry. I will lead the upward devotion on Friday evening and Saturday morning.
I Thessalonians 3
Paul laments not being able to visit the believers in Thessalonica, whom he had formed as disciples. Stuck in Athens, he sent Timothy to them, and now has received Timothy back and is thankful for the good report, of their faith and love.
Verse 8: “for now we really live, if you stand firm in the Lord.” It seems that this is a good measurement of spiritual fruit – that disciples “stand firm in the Lord”. What would this look like in the church today, and how can we who lead ministries envision this outcome in the context of 2011, or 2015, etc. Paul is standing firm, even with great persecution. He was worried that his difficulty might somehow weaken the faith or resolve of the recipients of this letter. He is comforted that they are standing firm.
Verse 13: “so that He may establish your hearts unblamable in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.” This is one way that Paul envisions the outcome of his ministry with this church. Hearts established unblamable in holiness seems like a good, universal vision for individuals and churches.
Guide me today most Holy Lord, establishing my heart unblamable in holiness on this day, and everyday as I labor in your vineyard, among your sheep, and in the world where the darkness cannot overcome the light of your love and presence.
Yesterday was my first day back in the office, and it was very good to return to the labor of pastoring. Our executive staff had a great bi-monthly meeting followed by a meeting with our pastors in the afternoon. The WOW evening meal was tasty with good conversations around the tables, and the 7:00 training of referees for Upward basketball was a good way for me to connect with that ministry. I will lead the upward devotion on Friday evening and Saturday morning.
I Thessalonians 3
Paul laments not being able to visit the believers in Thessalonica, whom he had formed as disciples. Stuck in Athens, he sent Timothy to them, and now has received Timothy back and is thankful for the good report, of their faith and love.
Verse 8: “for now we really live, if you stand firm in the Lord.” It seems that this is a good measurement of spiritual fruit – that disciples “stand firm in the Lord”. What would this look like in the church today, and how can we who lead ministries envision this outcome in the context of 2011, or 2015, etc. Paul is standing firm, even with great persecution. He was worried that his difficulty might somehow weaken the faith or resolve of the recipients of this letter. He is comforted that they are standing firm.
Verse 13: “so that He may establish your hearts unblamable in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.” This is one way that Paul envisions the outcome of his ministry with this church. Hearts established unblamable in holiness seems like a good, universal vision for individuals and churches.
Guide me today most Holy Lord, establishing my heart unblamable in holiness on this day, and everyday as I labor in your vineyard, among your sheep, and in the world where the darkness cannot overcome the light of your love and presence.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
January 5, 2011
1-5-11 Wednesday, 7:55 am Springfield, 35 degrees, cloudy.
I am looking forward to getting back into the groove of pastoring this morning. Yesterday Jerry and I caught up during lunch, and I stopped by the office in the afternoon. Today I have the Nifty Nine staff meeting this morning, pastors this afternoon, and Upward Referee training tonight at 7. Guide me holy Lord as I return to the routine and the work to which you have called me.
I Thes 2
Paul encourages the gentile believers who have received from him the Word of God. In French, the word for heart is Coeur, and the English word encourage carries the meaning of “put the heart into”, as discourage comes from “take the heart out of”. Today I want to encourage many in my work as pastor.
I am looking forward to getting back into the groove of pastoring this morning. Yesterday Jerry and I caught up during lunch, and I stopped by the office in the afternoon. Today I have the Nifty Nine staff meeting this morning, pastors this afternoon, and Upward Referee training tonight at 7. Guide me holy Lord as I return to the routine and the work to which you have called me.
I Thes 2
Paul encourages the gentile believers who have received from him the Word of God. In French, the word for heart is Coeur, and the English word encourage carries the meaning of “put the heart into”, as discourage comes from “take the heart out of”. Today I want to encourage many in my work as pastor.
Monday, January 3, 2011
January 3, 2010
1-3-11 Monday, 7:55 am, raining, 46 degrees.
We had a great Sunday as we attended Bethany’s church and then out to lunch with her friend Natalie. Watching the Rams lose last night was not pretty, but it was good entertainment. Twenty-six years ago on this day God blessed us with our first child, and we rejoice to celebrate David’s birthday, albeit from afar. Today is our last day here in southern California, and we will fly home early tomorrow morning.
Colossians 4
Paul is writing from prison, and encouraging the church. He mentions several people by name, and hopes they will pray for him. In verse 17 he writes: “… tell Archippus, ‘do your best in the job you received from the Master. Do your very best.” I wonder what job this was, and what it would look like for him to do his best. Why did he need this encouragement? I could put myself in the place of Archippus, and apply this admonition to Bruce Baxter – “do your best in the job you received from the Master.” For me, this would involve pastoring at my very best. Having been away from Springfield and Wesley Church for a week now, I am in a good place to reflect upon what that will look like in 2011. Here are some thoughts:
• Creative, insightful, well-prepared sermons
• Intentional development of leaders
• Diligent application of the 5 prescriptions from HCI (Vision, staffing, worship, facilities, communication)
• Careful attention to the resources required for ministry
• Development of written material, for use in the church and beyond
As I plan for this new year of ministry, the above list is a great guide for my time and energy as the Master has appointed me to serve Wesley United Methodist Church in Springfield Missouri!
I am your servant, most Holy One. My days, nights, weekends, holidays are yours. Guide me as one who is totally surrendered to your will and purposes, equipped to do your work in this generation into which I have been born.
We had a great Sunday as we attended Bethany’s church and then out to lunch with her friend Natalie. Watching the Rams lose last night was not pretty, but it was good entertainment. Twenty-six years ago on this day God blessed us with our first child, and we rejoice to celebrate David’s birthday, albeit from afar. Today is our last day here in southern California, and we will fly home early tomorrow morning.
Colossians 4
Paul is writing from prison, and encouraging the church. He mentions several people by name, and hopes they will pray for him. In verse 17 he writes: “… tell Archippus, ‘do your best in the job you received from the Master. Do your very best.” I wonder what job this was, and what it would look like for him to do his best. Why did he need this encouragement? I could put myself in the place of Archippus, and apply this admonition to Bruce Baxter – “do your best in the job you received from the Master.” For me, this would involve pastoring at my very best. Having been away from Springfield and Wesley Church for a week now, I am in a good place to reflect upon what that will look like in 2011. Here are some thoughts:
• Creative, insightful, well-prepared sermons
• Intentional development of leaders
• Diligent application of the 5 prescriptions from HCI (Vision, staffing, worship, facilities, communication)
• Careful attention to the resources required for ministry
• Development of written material, for use in the church and beyond
As I plan for this new year of ministry, the above list is a great guide for my time and energy as the Master has appointed me to serve Wesley United Methodist Church in Springfield Missouri!
I am your servant, most Holy One. My days, nights, weekends, holidays are yours. Guide me as one who is totally surrendered to your will and purposes, equipped to do your work in this generation into which I have been born.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
January 2, 2011
1-2-11 Sunday, 7:02 am, 46 degrees, partly cloudy
Ahh, the first journal entry of this new year! Yesterday we arose at 5:15 and were in the car by 6:00, heading for the Rose Parade. It was excellent, meeting all of our high expectations. The arrangements Audrey had made for tickets, parking, directions, etc were all perfect. The weather was clear and cold, but very comfortable. A street preacher addressed the grandstand before the parade, and another guy walked up and down with a sign that said “God Kills” on one side, and “9-11 was America’s punishment” on the other. The crowd booed and heckled both. I felt like I was in the middle of some pagan crowd and it was not clear how I might best respond. I did so by staying silent, and I did not feel that a different response was required, or would be helpful.
I still am considering what approach I will make for choosing scripture on a daily basis this year. This morning I will open up the file of “One a Day with Welsey” that I compiled in 2008 through May. I am considering polishing it, and publishing it in some form for 2012. In it I chose a chapter a day, roughly based on the season, and the corresponding commentary from Wesley’s notes on the Bible.
I Pet 2
“So clean house! Make a clean sweep of malice and pretense, envy and hurtful talk. You’ve had a taste of God.” This is a great scripture for the first of the year. Peter goes on to describe Christ as the rock, the cornerstone for our lives. In verse 11 he reminds us that “this world is not your home, so don’t make yourself cozy in it. Don’t indulge your ego at the expense of your soul.”
Guide me today, and this year, most holy Lord, as I live with You, Christ as the cornerstone of my life, making a clean sweep every day, tasting You, living in the light of eternity and guarding against indulging my ego at the expense of my soul.
Ahh, the first journal entry of this new year! Yesterday we arose at 5:15 and were in the car by 6:00, heading for the Rose Parade. It was excellent, meeting all of our high expectations. The arrangements Audrey had made for tickets, parking, directions, etc were all perfect. The weather was clear and cold, but very comfortable. A street preacher addressed the grandstand before the parade, and another guy walked up and down with a sign that said “God Kills” on one side, and “9-11 was America’s punishment” on the other. The crowd booed and heckled both. I felt like I was in the middle of some pagan crowd and it was not clear how I might best respond. I did so by staying silent, and I did not feel that a different response was required, or would be helpful.
I still am considering what approach I will make for choosing scripture on a daily basis this year. This morning I will open up the file of “One a Day with Welsey” that I compiled in 2008 through May. I am considering polishing it, and publishing it in some form for 2012. In it I chose a chapter a day, roughly based on the season, and the corresponding commentary from Wesley’s notes on the Bible.
I Pet 2
“So clean house! Make a clean sweep of malice and pretense, envy and hurtful talk. You’ve had a taste of God.” This is a great scripture for the first of the year. Peter goes on to describe Christ as the rock, the cornerstone for our lives. In verse 11 he reminds us that “this world is not your home, so don’t make yourself cozy in it. Don’t indulge your ego at the expense of your soul.”
Guide me today, and this year, most holy Lord, as I live with You, Christ as the cornerstone of my life, making a clean sweep every day, tasting You, living in the light of eternity and guarding against indulging my ego at the expense of my soul.
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