5-31-11 Tuesday, 6:06 am Springfield, 73 degrees, partly cloudy
Yesterday was a good Memorial Day. It was David and Danelle’s (my son and daughter-in-law) second anniversary, and they attended the Cardinal game in St. Louis. I rode the Kawasaki to the Wilson Creek National Battlefield where I have an annual membership. I changed into running clothes and ran the five-mile loop (with more walking than usual). Two trips to the grocery store and I got all we needed to barbeque burgers. I was able to work in the garden (at last!), and got the final tomato plants in the ground (raised from seeds since February) and sowed some more okra and a hill of squash. Even for a small garden plot, there is a lot of work to keep it weeded and tended.
As I was thinking about the garden, I was reflecting upon the church. There is some planting that does not take off, there are some conditions that are not favorable, and then suddenly become fruitful. One of the main requirements for pastors and leaders is constant attention and care. The same is true in one’s family. The natural processes of plowing, planting, cultivating, tending that the garden requires are instructive for servant leadership in the body of Christ.
II Sam 17
David and his fighting men have left Jerusalem as Absalom has seized the throne. Absalom is advised by Ahithophel to send 12,000 troops immediately (tonight) to seize and kill David while he is bone tired. David’s secret ally Hushai gives Absalom different advice, to take the whole army after David (which will take longer). Hushai then sends word to David of what the two sets of advice are that were given to Absalom. David spends the night moving his forces further away from Jerusalem, across the Jordan river. When Ahithophel realized his advice was not followed, he went home, put his house in order, and took his own life. When David arrived at Mahanaim, three leaders provided food and bedding for him and his army, realizing they were famished and weary.
During periods of revolt and rebellion, it must be very difficult to chart the right course. Who do you support, and what risks do you take with your own safety when mighty forces are at odds? This is the spiritual reality today. The forces of good and evil are at war, and each person has a daily choice of how to be involved. The key is to know right from wrong, and to know which force will prevail. The scriptures teach us that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Light, and He will overcome in the end. I am privileged to serve Jesus today with everything I have, and to lead others to do the same.
Guide my steps on this last day of May, most holy, powerful Lord.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
May 30, 2011
5-30-11 Monday, Memorial Day, 7:00 am Springfield, 72 degrees.
It is a beautiful morning on this unofficial start of summer. Winds will be gusty from the south at 20-30 mph. I will exercise, work in the garden, go for a ride, etc. After today, this will be a busy week with Annual Conference coming to town. I am finishing my fourth year at Wesley, and rolling strongly into year five. Yesterday I challenged the congregation to live with God as the One who will remember. As usual, I was preaching to myself, and am so ordering my life day by day.
II Sam 15 -16
King David flees Jerusalem on foot as his son Absalom gains support for his insurrection. Loyalties and deceptions abound. This was one of the lowest points in David’s life. Eventually God will restore to him the kingdom, but as he flees the capital city it is not obvious that he will ever return.
In every person’s life there are high points and low points. What I take away from these chapters is that even in the lowest and darkest parts of life, God is still present, and it is critical to keep moving forward, discerning next steps, trusting reliable friends, and planning the best course of action.
Guide me steps today, most holy Lord as I travel through this part of my life, trusting in you and desiring to please you in every way. In my life, be glorified today.
It is a beautiful morning on this unofficial start of summer. Winds will be gusty from the south at 20-30 mph. I will exercise, work in the garden, go for a ride, etc. After today, this will be a busy week with Annual Conference coming to town. I am finishing my fourth year at Wesley, and rolling strongly into year five. Yesterday I challenged the congregation to live with God as the One who will remember. As usual, I was preaching to myself, and am so ordering my life day by day.
II Sam 15 -16
King David flees Jerusalem on foot as his son Absalom gains support for his insurrection. Loyalties and deceptions abound. This was one of the lowest points in David’s life. Eventually God will restore to him the kingdom, but as he flees the capital city it is not obvious that he will ever return.
In every person’s life there are high points and low points. What I take away from these chapters is that even in the lowest and darkest parts of life, God is still present, and it is critical to keep moving forward, discerning next steps, trusting reliable friends, and planning the best course of action.
Guide me steps today, most holy Lord as I travel through this part of my life, trusting in you and desiring to please you in every way. In my life, be glorified today.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
May 29, 2011
5-29-11 Memorial Day Sunday, 5:27 am Springfield, 72 degrees, clear.
My theme this morning is the question “Who will remember you and for what?” My desire is to be remembered by God for being faithful, for loving Him with all my heart, soul, mind and strength, and for loving my neighbor as myself. This morning I have the privilege in four worship services to speak to worshippers, encouraging them to aim to be remembered by God.
Yesterday I worked on this message, ran 5 miles, made two hospital visits and one nursing home visit. I cooked dinner and then worked some more on my sermon. Today after church our calendar is open, as there are no meetings scheduled for this holiday weekend. Bethany continues to make steady progress as she heals from her foot surgery. Audrey has been caring for her round the clock for these two weeks.
John 14:15-21
Jesus tells his disciples that if they love him they will keep his commandments. And he will ask the Father to give them another Advocate to be with them forever. This is the Spirit of truth, (the Holy Spirit) whom the world cannot receive because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because he abides with you, and will be in you.
Today, most Holy Lord, I desire to live and speak and minister in the power of your Holy Spirit. Not my will, but your will be done. My desire is to please you and to lead people to follow you as fruitful disciples. May the words of my mouth, and the meditations of my heart be acceptable unto you, my rock and redeemer. Amen.
My theme this morning is the question “Who will remember you and for what?” My desire is to be remembered by God for being faithful, for loving Him with all my heart, soul, mind and strength, and for loving my neighbor as myself. This morning I have the privilege in four worship services to speak to worshippers, encouraging them to aim to be remembered by God.
Yesterday I worked on this message, ran 5 miles, made two hospital visits and one nursing home visit. I cooked dinner and then worked some more on my sermon. Today after church our calendar is open, as there are no meetings scheduled for this holiday weekend. Bethany continues to make steady progress as she heals from her foot surgery. Audrey has been caring for her round the clock for these two weeks.
John 14:15-21
Jesus tells his disciples that if they love him they will keep his commandments. And he will ask the Father to give them another Advocate to be with them forever. This is the Spirit of truth, (the Holy Spirit) whom the world cannot receive because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because he abides with you, and will be in you.
Today, most Holy Lord, I desire to live and speak and minister in the power of your Holy Spirit. Not my will, but your will be done. My desire is to please you and to lead people to follow you as fruitful disciples. May the words of my mouth, and the meditations of my heart be acceptable unto you, my rock and redeemer. Amen.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
May 28, 2011
5-28-11 Saturday, 9:16 am Springfield, 64 degrees.
II Samuel 13 – the tragic account of Amnon, Tamar and Absalom.
A key verse in this tragedy is verse 21. David hears about Amnon’s rape of Tamar, but will not punish Amnon, because he loves him and he is his firstborn. I wonder how much David’s sin with Bathsheba also figured in to his unwillingness to punish Amnon. Absalom eventually murders Amnon, and the violence in David’s family escalates as was prophesied.
Life is complex with unexpected twists and turns. Tomorrow I will be preaching on the topic “How will you be remembered?” and using John 14:15-21 as the text. In this passage, Jesus tells his disciples that keeping his commandments is evidence of their love for him, and he will ask the Father to send the Advocate, the Spirit of truth to be with them forever. My point will be to encourage hearers to obey Jesus’ commandments, and to be open and responsive to his Holy Spirit.
Jesus, today I will be obedient to your commandments of love demonstrated toward God and toward people. Guard me from selfishness, lead me in your paths, guide me with your Spirit through this 28th day of May, 2011.
II Samuel 13 – the tragic account of Amnon, Tamar and Absalom.
A key verse in this tragedy is verse 21. David hears about Amnon’s rape of Tamar, but will not punish Amnon, because he loves him and he is his firstborn. I wonder how much David’s sin with Bathsheba also figured in to his unwillingness to punish Amnon. Absalom eventually murders Amnon, and the violence in David’s family escalates as was prophesied.
Life is complex with unexpected twists and turns. Tomorrow I will be preaching on the topic “How will you be remembered?” and using John 14:15-21 as the text. In this passage, Jesus tells his disciples that keeping his commandments is evidence of their love for him, and he will ask the Father to send the Advocate, the Spirit of truth to be with them forever. My point will be to encourage hearers to obey Jesus’ commandments, and to be open and responsive to his Holy Spirit.
Jesus, today I will be obedient to your commandments of love demonstrated toward God and toward people. Guard me from selfishness, lead me in your paths, guide me with your Spirit through this 28th day of May, 2011.
Friday, May 27, 2011
May 27, 2011
5-27-11 Friday, 6:56 am Springfield, 51 degrees, partly sunny
Yesterday I discovered that the five baby bluebirds had all died in the birdhouse, and sparrows had overlaid their nest and dead bodies with more nesting material. I surmise that the sparrows might have killed the baby bluebirds, or they died from other causes. I removed the rotting nest, and found three sparrow eggs, which I placed in the other sparrow nest in my yard. Surprise! I hope the other sparrows hatch the eggs mysteriously appearing in their nest.
Life is full of surprises, disappointments, and opportunities. I hope to be open daily to all that God brings into my life, with thorough preparation and total surrender to His will. My goal is to maintain healthy practices in my personal life (exercise, diet, rest, finances, and relationships) and in the corporate life of the church. Reading the accounts of David in II Samuel remind me of how easily a person can get out of balance.
II Sam 12
Nathan the prophet is sent to David with a parable, of a rich man who had many flocks, and a poor man who had one ewe lamb. Upon receiving a visitor, the rich man was unwilling to take from his own flock or herd; rather he took the poor man’s ewe lamb and prepared it for the traveler. This injustice enraged David who demanded the rich man’s life. Nathan the prophet said to David “you are the man”.
God’s message through Nathan to David was: “It is I who anointed you king over Israel and it is I who delivered you from the hand of Saul. I also gave you your master’s house and your master’s wives into your care, and I gave you the house of Israel and Judah; and if that had been too little, I would have added to you many more things like these!” (12:8)
God’s question to David was: “Why have you despised the word of the Lord by doing evil in His sight? You have struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword, have taken his wife to by your wife, and have killed him with the sword of the sons of Ammon.” (12:9)
Every believer, every leader must pay careful attention to the word of the Lord. “It is profitable for teaching, for reproof, correction, for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” (II Tim 3:16-17) My intention is to hold my actions accountable to God’s word, and also to others in covenant relationship so that I might not sin against God. David’s sin came close to ruining his life, and had long-term consequences within his family, and beyond. Guide and guard my steps, most holy Lord, today and every day as I walk with you in the light of your Word.
Yesterday I discovered that the five baby bluebirds had all died in the birdhouse, and sparrows had overlaid their nest and dead bodies with more nesting material. I surmise that the sparrows might have killed the baby bluebirds, or they died from other causes. I removed the rotting nest, and found three sparrow eggs, which I placed in the other sparrow nest in my yard. Surprise! I hope the other sparrows hatch the eggs mysteriously appearing in their nest.
Life is full of surprises, disappointments, and opportunities. I hope to be open daily to all that God brings into my life, with thorough preparation and total surrender to His will. My goal is to maintain healthy practices in my personal life (exercise, diet, rest, finances, and relationships) and in the corporate life of the church. Reading the accounts of David in II Samuel remind me of how easily a person can get out of balance.
II Sam 12
Nathan the prophet is sent to David with a parable, of a rich man who had many flocks, and a poor man who had one ewe lamb. Upon receiving a visitor, the rich man was unwilling to take from his own flock or herd; rather he took the poor man’s ewe lamb and prepared it for the traveler. This injustice enraged David who demanded the rich man’s life. Nathan the prophet said to David “you are the man”.
God’s message through Nathan to David was: “It is I who anointed you king over Israel and it is I who delivered you from the hand of Saul. I also gave you your master’s house and your master’s wives into your care, and I gave you the house of Israel and Judah; and if that had been too little, I would have added to you many more things like these!” (12:8)
God’s question to David was: “Why have you despised the word of the Lord by doing evil in His sight? You have struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword, have taken his wife to by your wife, and have killed him with the sword of the sons of Ammon.” (12:9)
Every believer, every leader must pay careful attention to the word of the Lord. “It is profitable for teaching, for reproof, correction, for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” (II Tim 3:16-17) My intention is to hold my actions accountable to God’s word, and also to others in covenant relationship so that I might not sin against God. David’s sin came close to ruining his life, and had long-term consequences within his family, and beyond. Guide and guard my steps, most holy Lord, today and every day as I walk with you in the light of your Word.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
May 26, 2011
5-26-11 Thursday, 6:44 am Springfield, 53 degrees, cloudy, rain impending.
Yesterday was a long and strenuous day. From the morning prayer circle, to worship planning, to the pastors’ meeting, a delightful visit with a missionary to India, telephone conversations, computer difficulties as I worked on getting information to Missouri Asbury Seminary Alumni, conversations with a person about becoming a pastor, WOW appreciation dinner and finishing with part 2 of the new member class in which I taught the portions on spiritual formation around scripture and tithing.
Today I will lead the 18th peer mentor group (minus our pastor in Joplin) as we conclude a long process of supporting each other through the Healthy Church Initiative. Tonight I will meet with a couple to discuss their wedding in Spring of 2012. I love being a pastor, being involved in such a wide variety of areas of ministry and encouraging people in their spiritual growth.
These precious moments in the morning are my opportunity to be quiet and reflect upon God’s word, to be still and know that God is God. Even as I will watch the news of local and world events, and as I listen to the birds and watch the sky grow dark with rainclouds, I am open to all that the Holy Spirit will speak to me as I wait upon the Lord here in my family room.
2 Sam 9-11
Chapter 9 contains the details of David’s desire to honor an heir of Saul and Jonathon. He discovers that Jonathon’s son Mephibosheth and gives him the land formerly belonging to Saul, along with a place at David’s table, almost equal to David’s sons.
Chapter 10 opens with the death of the king of Ammon, and Hanun his son becoming king. David desired to show kindness to Hanun as his father had done to David. However, when David’s men arrived in the land of the Ammonites, their motives were interpreted as spying, and they were mocked with their garments sliced and their beards half shaven. This enraged David, and he sent Joab and all the army out to fight. The Ammonites hired the Arameans to join them in the fight.
Chapter 11 involves the tragic tale of David and Bathsheba. It begins with the setting: “In the spring, at the time when kings go out to battle, that David sent Joab ... But David stayed at Jerusalem.” There are so many lessons to be learned from this chapter and applied to the lives of spiritual leaders today.
My verse for meditation today is 10:12 in which the commander, Joab tells his army:
“Be strong, and let us show ourselves courageous for the sake of our people and for the cities of our God; and may the Lord do what is good in His sight.” Today, as a pastor, I desire to be strong, to show myself courageous, and to witness how the Lord will do what is good in His sight. Guide my steps most Holy One as I serve you alone, following the path you have set my feet upon. Guard me from sin and help me to strive with every ounce of energy to please you.
Yesterday was a long and strenuous day. From the morning prayer circle, to worship planning, to the pastors’ meeting, a delightful visit with a missionary to India, telephone conversations, computer difficulties as I worked on getting information to Missouri Asbury Seminary Alumni, conversations with a person about becoming a pastor, WOW appreciation dinner and finishing with part 2 of the new member class in which I taught the portions on spiritual formation around scripture and tithing.
Today I will lead the 18th peer mentor group (minus our pastor in Joplin) as we conclude a long process of supporting each other through the Healthy Church Initiative. Tonight I will meet with a couple to discuss their wedding in Spring of 2012. I love being a pastor, being involved in such a wide variety of areas of ministry and encouraging people in their spiritual growth.
These precious moments in the morning are my opportunity to be quiet and reflect upon God’s word, to be still and know that God is God. Even as I will watch the news of local and world events, and as I listen to the birds and watch the sky grow dark with rainclouds, I am open to all that the Holy Spirit will speak to me as I wait upon the Lord here in my family room.
2 Sam 9-11
Chapter 9 contains the details of David’s desire to honor an heir of Saul and Jonathon. He discovers that Jonathon’s son Mephibosheth and gives him the land formerly belonging to Saul, along with a place at David’s table, almost equal to David’s sons.
Chapter 10 opens with the death of the king of Ammon, and Hanun his son becoming king. David desired to show kindness to Hanun as his father had done to David. However, when David’s men arrived in the land of the Ammonites, their motives were interpreted as spying, and they were mocked with their garments sliced and their beards half shaven. This enraged David, and he sent Joab and all the army out to fight. The Ammonites hired the Arameans to join them in the fight.
Chapter 11 involves the tragic tale of David and Bathsheba. It begins with the setting: “In the spring, at the time when kings go out to battle, that David sent Joab ... But David stayed at Jerusalem.” There are so many lessons to be learned from this chapter and applied to the lives of spiritual leaders today.
My verse for meditation today is 10:12 in which the commander, Joab tells his army:
“Be strong, and let us show ourselves courageous for the sake of our people and for the cities of our God; and may the Lord do what is good in His sight.” Today, as a pastor, I desire to be strong, to show myself courageous, and to witness how the Lord will do what is good in His sight. Guide my steps most Holy One as I serve you alone, following the path you have set my feet upon. Guard me from sin and help me to strive with every ounce of energy to please you.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
May 25, 2011
5-25-11 Wednesday, 7:17 am Springfield, 68 degrees, cloudy
My motorcycle trip up and back to Columbia went well yesterday. Only 4 pastors showed for the meeting with the bishop, but it was rich and fruitful as we talked through the book Switch and consulted about each of our local church situations. In some ways I feel almost overwhelmed with all the work that lies ahead for me. I recognize this feeling, and it seems to be repeated each May. The Asbury Seminary lunch is one of many planning/promoting events that I still have much work to do.
II Sam 7
David “was settled in his palace and the Lord had given him rest from all his enemies around him.” He ponders building a temple for the ark of the covenant, and Nathan the prophet tells him to go ahead. But that night God spoke to Nathan with a message for David – that he was not to build a temple, but that God would establish David’s offspring to succeed him. “He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.” (verse 13) Solomon would be the son of David who would build the great temple, and Jesus, born several hundred years after David would be of the house and lineage of David, and will reign forever.
This Sunday is Memorial Day weekend, and I will be preaching about leaving a legacy, just how will we be remembered. This 7th chapter of II Samuel clearly is a legacy chapter, and could be the text I use for the message. Many people are remembered by their heirs, many by the buildings they built or the causes they support. The Noble peace award was established by one who made a fortune with explosives. The legacy of so many is tainted with their sins – Maddoff, Jesse Jackson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, John Edwards (whose wife just died of cancer) to name a few. This is an important topic for each of use to carefully consider.
Today is a gift from you, most holy Lord. I desire to live it to the fullest, according to your will for my life. Guide me in all I do, plan, think, and respond. I am yours today and forever. May my legacy be of obedience and fruitfulness as your servant.
My motorcycle trip up and back to Columbia went well yesterday. Only 4 pastors showed for the meeting with the bishop, but it was rich and fruitful as we talked through the book Switch and consulted about each of our local church situations. In some ways I feel almost overwhelmed with all the work that lies ahead for me. I recognize this feeling, and it seems to be repeated each May. The Asbury Seminary lunch is one of many planning/promoting events that I still have much work to do.
II Sam 7
David “was settled in his palace and the Lord had given him rest from all his enemies around him.” He ponders building a temple for the ark of the covenant, and Nathan the prophet tells him to go ahead. But that night God spoke to Nathan with a message for David – that he was not to build a temple, but that God would establish David’s offspring to succeed him. “He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.” (verse 13) Solomon would be the son of David who would build the great temple, and Jesus, born several hundred years after David would be of the house and lineage of David, and will reign forever.
This Sunday is Memorial Day weekend, and I will be preaching about leaving a legacy, just how will we be remembered. This 7th chapter of II Samuel clearly is a legacy chapter, and could be the text I use for the message. Many people are remembered by their heirs, many by the buildings they built or the causes they support. The Noble peace award was established by one who made a fortune with explosives. The legacy of so many is tainted with their sins – Maddoff, Jesse Jackson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, John Edwards (whose wife just died of cancer) to name a few. This is an important topic for each of use to carefully consider.
Today is a gift from you, most holy Lord. I desire to live it to the fullest, according to your will for my life. Guide me in all I do, plan, think, and respond. I am yours today and forever. May my legacy be of obedience and fruitfulness as your servant.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
May 24, 2011
5-24-11 Tuesday, 5:07 am Springfield, 59 degrees, clear
Today promises to be a dry and sunny day in the Ozarks, with more storms tonight. I will travel to Columbia for the Bishop’s peer mentor group and a discussion of the book Switch. Tonight our life group meets at the church. The devastation in Joplin continues to capture the national spotlight, with President Obama planning a Sunday visit there.
John 13:31-14:14
Jesus is direct in his last conversations with the disciples. In 13:34ff he says: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” I see that this commandment is at the heart of life in the church. Down through the last 2000 years it has been lived out in a variety of ways, and also ignored to the destruction of the witness to the world. As a pastor I must keep this commandment ever before the body.
Jesus gives his disciples, and all who follow him a great promise in 14:12-14. He states that the one who believes in Him shall do the works He does, and even greater, because he goes to the Father. And whatever we ask in his name, He will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. This promise gives me faith today and hope for tomorrow. I must never forget that Jesus has invited me to follow in his footsteps and do the things he did, praying to the Father in his name.
Guide me today, most holy Lord, as I follow in your footsteps, travelling to Columbia, meeting with our bishop and other pastors, connecting with your body in Missouri, where an entire city is grieving the destruction of Sunday’s storm. Use me today to your glory. In Jesus Name, amen.
Today promises to be a dry and sunny day in the Ozarks, with more storms tonight. I will travel to Columbia for the Bishop’s peer mentor group and a discussion of the book Switch. Tonight our life group meets at the church. The devastation in Joplin continues to capture the national spotlight, with President Obama planning a Sunday visit there.
John 13:31-14:14
Jesus is direct in his last conversations with the disciples. In 13:34ff he says: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” I see that this commandment is at the heart of life in the church. Down through the last 2000 years it has been lived out in a variety of ways, and also ignored to the destruction of the witness to the world. As a pastor I must keep this commandment ever before the body.
Jesus gives his disciples, and all who follow him a great promise in 14:12-14. He states that the one who believes in Him shall do the works He does, and even greater, because he goes to the Father. And whatever we ask in his name, He will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. This promise gives me faith today and hope for tomorrow. I must never forget that Jesus has invited me to follow in his footsteps and do the things he did, praying to the Father in his name.
Guide me today, most holy Lord, as I follow in your footsteps, travelling to Columbia, meeting with our bishop and other pastors, connecting with your body in Missouri, where an entire city is grieving the destruction of Sunday’s storm. Use me today to your glory. In Jesus Name, amen.
Monday, May 23, 2011
May 23, 2011
5-23-11 Monday, 8:06 am Springfield, 73 degrees, cloudy
Yesterday was a good Sunday. We celebrated the hospitality teams with a lunch at noon, and when I left the building at 1:25 I was exhausted. Audrey stayed home with Bethany on day 7 of her foot surgery. In the evening, a deadly storm hit Joplin, a beautiful rainbow appeared over our house, and we watched a movie together. Today I have unscheduled, with hopes of normal sabbath day flow (normal is an interesting term, as most Mondays recently have not been “normal”)
John 13:1-30, Psalm 119:1-16 (from the reading plan of the One Year Bible)
Jesus predicts his betrayal, and sends Judas out. The other disciples assume he is on an errand of some kind. I am amazed that Jesus spent only three years with his disciples, as I have been now at Wesley for 4 years. Our speaker on Saturday, Chuck Bomar, is a proponent of direct, relational discipleship. His approach reminds me of Coleman’s Master Plan of Discipleship. I agree with this in principle, and have found it somewhat difficult in practice. I must give it full consideration as I plan and discern my energy and time in the coming months and years.
Today I will be reading the book Switch – How to change things when change is hard by Chip Heath and Dan Heath. It is the topic of our book study tomorrow in Columbia with the Bishop’s peer mentoring group. The Washington Post says of this book: “Anyone interested in influencing others – to buy, to vote, to learn, to diet, to give to charity, or to start a revolution – can learn from this book”.
Guide my steps today most holy Lord as I walk as your disciple through this day in 2011 here in Springfield, Missouri. Fill me, use me, mold me, send me on this, one of the finite days in your infinite love.
Yesterday was a good Sunday. We celebrated the hospitality teams with a lunch at noon, and when I left the building at 1:25 I was exhausted. Audrey stayed home with Bethany on day 7 of her foot surgery. In the evening, a deadly storm hit Joplin, a beautiful rainbow appeared over our house, and we watched a movie together. Today I have unscheduled, with hopes of normal sabbath day flow (normal is an interesting term, as most Mondays recently have not been “normal”)
John 13:1-30, Psalm 119:1-16 (from the reading plan of the One Year Bible)
Jesus predicts his betrayal, and sends Judas out. The other disciples assume he is on an errand of some kind. I am amazed that Jesus spent only three years with his disciples, as I have been now at Wesley for 4 years. Our speaker on Saturday, Chuck Bomar, is a proponent of direct, relational discipleship. His approach reminds me of Coleman’s Master Plan of Discipleship. I agree with this in principle, and have found it somewhat difficult in practice. I must give it full consideration as I plan and discern my energy and time in the coming months and years.
Today I will be reading the book Switch – How to change things when change is hard by Chip Heath and Dan Heath. It is the topic of our book study tomorrow in Columbia with the Bishop’s peer mentoring group. The Washington Post says of this book: “Anyone interested in influencing others – to buy, to vote, to learn, to diet, to give to charity, or to start a revolution – can learn from this book”.
Guide my steps today most holy Lord as I walk as your disciple through this day in 2011 here in Springfield, Missouri. Fill me, use me, mold me, send me on this, one of the finite days in your infinite love.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
May 22, 2011
5-22-11 Sunday, 5:50 am Springfield, 67 degrees, cloudy
This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it. Thank you Lord for the singing birds, for my family, for a healthy body and a working mind. Guide me today as I encourage hearers to taste and see that You are good, and that your mercies are real, personal, and forever.
Yesterday I awoke in Columbia, and was up early to get ready for the Surge event. Chuck Bomar spoke to us morning and afternoon about ministry with college-aged people. It was a very helpful event, especially to the 11 people from Wesley UMC as we launch into more extensive and intense ministry among this age group.
Today my message centers around John Wesley’s Aldersgate experience. It was primarily an experience of grace in which Wesley gained a personal assurance that his sins had been taken away, and that he was saved from the law of sin and death. Martin Luther’s “Preface to the Epistle to the Romans” was being read. In 1515 Luther lectured on this Epistle, and in 1552 published this introduction to his commentary. Today, in 2011 I hope to communicate the Love of Christ, the nearness of God, the individual seeking and finding of God’s grace and peace.
I Pet 2:2-10 – Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk so that by it you may grow into salvation – if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.
I have found such peace, and I live today in the hope and the assurance that God has saved me, that God is with me, speaks through me and desires for each person who attends Wesley the assurance of salvation.
This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it. Thank you Lord for the singing birds, for my family, for a healthy body and a working mind. Guide me today as I encourage hearers to taste and see that You are good, and that your mercies are real, personal, and forever.
Yesterday I awoke in Columbia, and was up early to get ready for the Surge event. Chuck Bomar spoke to us morning and afternoon about ministry with college-aged people. It was a very helpful event, especially to the 11 people from Wesley UMC as we launch into more extensive and intense ministry among this age group.
Today my message centers around John Wesley’s Aldersgate experience. It was primarily an experience of grace in which Wesley gained a personal assurance that his sins had been taken away, and that he was saved from the law of sin and death. Martin Luther’s “Preface to the Epistle to the Romans” was being read. In 1515 Luther lectured on this Epistle, and in 1552 published this introduction to his commentary. Today, in 2011 I hope to communicate the Love of Christ, the nearness of God, the individual seeking and finding of God’s grace and peace.
I Pet 2:2-10 – Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk so that by it you may grow into salvation – if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.
I have found such peace, and I live today in the hope and the assurance that God has saved me, that God is with me, speaks through me and desires for each person who attends Wesley the assurance of salvation.
Friday, May 20, 2011
May 20, 2011
5-20-11 Friday, 11:17 am Pastor’s Office at Wesley, Thunderstorm just beginning
We have Bishop Schnase, Kendall Waller, Bob Farr, Brian Hammons here at Wesley today conducting a Pathway Partners event. Pastor Jerry has done a great job organizing the details and getting the invitations out to our folks. This evening we travel to Columbia to participate in an event at the conference office designed for churches who are receiving the grants for college aged ministries. I am reading The Slow Fade, whose author will be with us tomorrow.
So, I have closed my door and will pour myself into writing the message for Sunday, given that my normal prep time on Saturday will be spent in Columbia.
I Pet 2:2-5, 9
Like newborn infants, long for the pure, spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow into salvation – if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good. Come to Him, a living stone, though rejected by mortals yet chosen and precious in God’s sight, and like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. …you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.
I love this passage of scripture. For my message on Sunday I will be emphasizing the phrase “if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.” I will be highlighting John Wesley’s Aldersgate experience in which he truly did “taste and see” that God’s grace and forgiveness was real, and it changed him forever.
Guide me Holy Lord as I lead forward encouraging each person to taste and see that indeed You are good, and your mercies make a difference in how we can live and enjoy life.
We have Bishop Schnase, Kendall Waller, Bob Farr, Brian Hammons here at Wesley today conducting a Pathway Partners event. Pastor Jerry has done a great job organizing the details and getting the invitations out to our folks. This evening we travel to Columbia to participate in an event at the conference office designed for churches who are receiving the grants for college aged ministries. I am reading The Slow Fade, whose author will be with us tomorrow.
So, I have closed my door and will pour myself into writing the message for Sunday, given that my normal prep time on Saturday will be spent in Columbia.
I Pet 2:2-5, 9
Like newborn infants, long for the pure, spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow into salvation – if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good. Come to Him, a living stone, though rejected by mortals yet chosen and precious in God’s sight, and like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. …you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.
I love this passage of scripture. For my message on Sunday I will be emphasizing the phrase “if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.” I will be highlighting John Wesley’s Aldersgate experience in which he truly did “taste and see” that God’s grace and forgiveness was real, and it changed him forever.
Guide me Holy Lord as I lead forward encouraging each person to taste and see that indeed You are good, and your mercies make a difference in how we can live and enjoy life.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
May 19, 2011
5-19-11 Thursday, 7:13 am Springfield, 60 degrees, cloudy with threat of rain.
Bethany has had a rough couple of days after her surgery. Back at the surgeon’s office yesterday, when the dressing was removed from her foot she experienced immediate relief from the pain. It was wrapped too tightly, but everything is fine underneath and she came home with a new dressing and much less pain. Hopefully the worst is over for her now, and she will notice daily improvement.
We had a great new member class last night, and combined with the Sunday morning class we have about 40 persons in the process of joining. Tonight we will have our quarterly church council meeting, and consider the new vision statement and other HCI items. I will focus on writing this week’s sermon, and designing the June series today between other meetings and conversations.
I Sam 24, 25
David spares Saul’s life in a cave, and Saul realizes that David will be the next king. Samuel dies, and is mourned. Nabal, an agribusinessman, refuses the request from David’s men to share the fruits of the sheep shearing, even though his shepherds were protected by David and his men. Nabal’s wife, Abigail, took upon herself to take supplies to David and his men, and apologized for her husband. When Nabal heard about this, “his heart died within him so that he became as a stone. And about ten days later, it happened that the Lord struck Nabal, and he died.” (25:37-38)
David then took the widow Abigail to be his wife. David had also taken Ahinoam of Jezreel to be his wife.
Guide my steps today, most holy Shepherd, as I navigate this day as a pastor, servant leader, father, husband in Springfield, Missouri. I am your servant; I recognize your work in my life and in the world around me. I desire to be “fighting your battles;” building your kingdom one relationship at a time. I pray that You give me insights as I prepare to teach, and wisdom as I lead the church called Wesley UMC.
Bethany has had a rough couple of days after her surgery. Back at the surgeon’s office yesterday, when the dressing was removed from her foot she experienced immediate relief from the pain. It was wrapped too tightly, but everything is fine underneath and she came home with a new dressing and much less pain. Hopefully the worst is over for her now, and she will notice daily improvement.
We had a great new member class last night, and combined with the Sunday morning class we have about 40 persons in the process of joining. Tonight we will have our quarterly church council meeting, and consider the new vision statement and other HCI items. I will focus on writing this week’s sermon, and designing the June series today between other meetings and conversations.
I Sam 24, 25
David spares Saul’s life in a cave, and Saul realizes that David will be the next king. Samuel dies, and is mourned. Nabal, an agribusinessman, refuses the request from David’s men to share the fruits of the sheep shearing, even though his shepherds were protected by David and his men. Nabal’s wife, Abigail, took upon herself to take supplies to David and his men, and apologized for her husband. When Nabal heard about this, “his heart died within him so that he became as a stone. And about ten days later, it happened that the Lord struck Nabal, and he died.” (25:37-38)
David then took the widow Abigail to be his wife. David had also taken Ahinoam of Jezreel to be his wife.
Guide my steps today, most holy Shepherd, as I navigate this day as a pastor, servant leader, father, husband in Springfield, Missouri. I am your servant; I recognize your work in my life and in the world around me. I desire to be “fighting your battles;” building your kingdom one relationship at a time. I pray that You give me insights as I prepare to teach, and wisdom as I lead the church called Wesley UMC.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
May 17, 2011
5-17-11 Tuesday, 7:14 am Springfield, 39 degrees (almost a record low)
Bethany’s surgery on her foot went well yesterday, and her recovery started well in the afternoon. She will rest and recover at home for the next several weeks, not being able to put weight on her foot for 4 weeks. As her father, I struggled with the risks she encountered with the anesthesia and the surgery, and I was most relieved when her surgeon came and gave us the good report of the successful operation.
I Sam 21
David procures bread for his men for Ahimelech the priest. It is the bread of the presence, used ceremoniously by the priest. He inquired if David’s men had “kept themselves from women”, and David assured him that they had. He gave him the bread, and then the sword of Goliath as Doeg the Edomite, a servant of Saul, was watching (he would later report this to Saul).
David was fleeing from Saul and went to Achish, king of Gath. Fearing for his life, he feigned insanity, drooling and acting crazy. This behavior was repulsive to Achish, and he dismissed David.
David was courageous, creative, and cunning, as evidenced in this chapter. He used all his wits and took great risks. Guide me today Lord as I work in your kingdom, building and strengthening the church, and reaching new souls for eternity.
Bethany’s surgery on her foot went well yesterday, and her recovery started well in the afternoon. She will rest and recover at home for the next several weeks, not being able to put weight on her foot for 4 weeks. As her father, I struggled with the risks she encountered with the anesthesia and the surgery, and I was most relieved when her surgeon came and gave us the good report of the successful operation.
I Sam 21
David procures bread for his men for Ahimelech the priest. It is the bread of the presence, used ceremoniously by the priest. He inquired if David’s men had “kept themselves from women”, and David assured him that they had. He gave him the bread, and then the sword of Goliath as Doeg the Edomite, a servant of Saul, was watching (he would later report this to Saul).
David was fleeing from Saul and went to Achish, king of Gath. Fearing for his life, he feigned insanity, drooling and acting crazy. This behavior was repulsive to Achish, and he dismissed David.
David was courageous, creative, and cunning, as evidenced in this chapter. He used all his wits and took great risks. Guide me today Lord as I work in your kingdom, building and strengthening the church, and reaching new souls for eternity.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
May 15, 2011
5-15-11 Sunday, 5:43 am Springfield, 44 degrees.
I am looking forward to the four worship services at Wesley this morning. I believe that God has given me a message to bring from the 23rd Psalm. Having been in Los Angeles last Sunday, my appreciation and love for the Wesley faith community has deepened.
We have two houseguests who arrived at 1:00 am. A friend of Bethany’s from APU and her brother are travelling to Cincinnati, and I am glad it worked out for them to stop here. Tomorrow morning Bethany reports at 5:30 am for her foot surgery. We will be prayerfully supporting her in every way.
Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd, I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to His name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever. (NLT)
Thank you Lord for being my shepherd. I trust you and I follow you. You have called me to be an under-shepherd of the flock, a high privilege and great responsibility. Guide me as I serve you in this way today, and as I live in your presence while I journey with you from the high places, to the darkest valleys, and always looking forward to dwelling in your house forever!
I am looking forward to the four worship services at Wesley this morning. I believe that God has given me a message to bring from the 23rd Psalm. Having been in Los Angeles last Sunday, my appreciation and love for the Wesley faith community has deepened.
We have two houseguests who arrived at 1:00 am. A friend of Bethany’s from APU and her brother are travelling to Cincinnati, and I am glad it worked out for them to stop here. Tomorrow morning Bethany reports at 5:30 am for her foot surgery. We will be prayerfully supporting her in every way.
Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd, I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to His name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever. (NLT)
Thank you Lord for being my shepherd. I trust you and I follow you. You have called me to be an under-shepherd of the flock, a high privilege and great responsibility. Guide me as I serve you in this way today, and as I live in your presence while I journey with you from the high places, to the darkest valleys, and always looking forward to dwelling in your house forever!
Saturday, May 14, 2011
May 14, 2011
5-14-11 Saturday, 11:40 am Springfield, 50 degrees, heading for an unseasonably cool high of 58.
I have neither journalled nor blogged in three days. My schedule has been somewhat consumed by the preparation for and hosting of the Azusa Pacific University Choir and Orchestra. They arrived Thursday afternoon, set up in the sanctuary, and led the 190 attendees in a marvelous time of music, praise and worship. Audrey was our point person for housing and meals, and she was incredible in the way she organized and provided for the students. Members of the Wesley congregation displayed servant hearts and extravagant generosity on Thursday evening and Friday morning. It was a tremendously successful event.
Today I had breakfast with Steve and we had a great conversation about life, politics, church, family, houses motorcycles and camping. Now I am prepared to work on tomorrow’s sermon for awhile, then we will attend two graduation parties and I will walk through a baptism for tomorrow with Jack.
Psalm 23: When the Lord is my shepherd …He provides: Rest and right paths (verses 1-3); Preparation in the presence of enemies (verses 4-5); Promise of goodness and mercy, now and forever (verse 6).
Lord, daily I ask for your guidance. I rely upon you as my shepherd. I confess that I am your sheep, a part of your flock, and I walk through this day trusting You for rest, right paths, preparation in the presence of my enemies and your promise of goodness and mercy, now and forever. Amen.
I have neither journalled nor blogged in three days. My schedule has been somewhat consumed by the preparation for and hosting of the Azusa Pacific University Choir and Orchestra. They arrived Thursday afternoon, set up in the sanctuary, and led the 190 attendees in a marvelous time of music, praise and worship. Audrey was our point person for housing and meals, and she was incredible in the way she organized and provided for the students. Members of the Wesley congregation displayed servant hearts and extravagant generosity on Thursday evening and Friday morning. It was a tremendously successful event.
Today I had breakfast with Steve and we had a great conversation about life, politics, church, family, houses motorcycles and camping. Now I am prepared to work on tomorrow’s sermon for awhile, then we will attend two graduation parties and I will walk through a baptism for tomorrow with Jack.
Psalm 23: When the Lord is my shepherd …He provides: Rest and right paths (verses 1-3); Preparation in the presence of enemies (verses 4-5); Promise of goodness and mercy, now and forever (verse 6).
Lord, daily I ask for your guidance. I rely upon you as my shepherd. I confess that I am your sheep, a part of your flock, and I walk through this day trusting You for rest, right paths, preparation in the presence of my enemies and your promise of goodness and mercy, now and forever. Amen.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
May 11, 2011
5-11-11 Wednesday, 5:47 am Springfield, 70 degrees, partly cloudy
I left my cell phone on my desk last night at the office, and I feel incomplete, not able to instantly check my schedule, the weather, use the alarm, etc. However, because it is web-based, I will log on to my Gmail account and check my calendar. It is odd how quickly a human comes to rely on a tool, and then how disorienting it is to misplace that tool. When I carried a Day-Timer for 15 years I would have the same feelings if it were misplaced. Yesterday I took a photo with my phone of the baby bluebirds at the age of 5 days old. I will post it to my Facebook account, as I did when they were one day old. I will also post some of the graduation photos I took.
I Sam 10
God changes hearts, anoints people for leadership, and empowers those who serve Him. In these two chapters there is the account of Samuel anointing Saul privately (10:1), God changing Saul’s heart (10:9), the Spirit of God coming mightily upon Saul so that he prophesied among a group of prophets (10:10), and the public selection and anointing of Saul as king by Samuel (10:17-27). As I read this chapter, I am painfully aware of how Saul’s life ended up – jealous of David, taking matters into his own hands, rejecting God. But at this beginning of his being king, the events of chapter 10 are mysterious and inspiring. God was visibly at work through Samuel, and also in the life of Saul. Verse 26 records that “the valiant men whose hearts God had touched went with him.”
Reading this chapter I am impressed with the repetition of the work of God upon the hearts of men. Through his prophet, priest and judge Samuel God speaks, leads and directs. In Saul and others God changes hearts. As a “religious leader” I must constantly wait upon the Lord, discerning His leading, acting in faith upon what He instructs. I am reminded today that God is at work and that the “change of heart” is God’s realm. In 10 days my sermon will focus upon the changed heart, remembering John Wesley’s experience at Aldersgate, May 24, 1738.
From the United Methodist Website:
“In 1738, at the age of 34, John Wesley attended an evening worship service in London which moved him deeply. In his journal, Wesley described his "Aldersgate experience:"
In the evening I went very unwillingly to a society in Aldersgate Street, where one was reading Luther's preface to the Epistle to the Romans. About a quarter before nine, while the leader was describing the change which God works in the heart through faith in Christ, I felt my heart strangely warmed. I felt I did trust in Christ alone for salvation; and an assurance was given me that He had taken away my sins, even mine, and saved me from the law of sin and death.
Holy Lord, may I be consumed with a burning heart, trusting in You alone for salvation, sharing this good news with others, as I serve You today as pastor in the Wesley faith community.
I left my cell phone on my desk last night at the office, and I feel incomplete, not able to instantly check my schedule, the weather, use the alarm, etc. However, because it is web-based, I will log on to my Gmail account and check my calendar. It is odd how quickly a human comes to rely on a tool, and then how disorienting it is to misplace that tool. When I carried a Day-Timer for 15 years I would have the same feelings if it were misplaced. Yesterday I took a photo with my phone of the baby bluebirds at the age of 5 days old. I will post it to my Facebook account, as I did when they were one day old. I will also post some of the graduation photos I took.
I Sam 10
God changes hearts, anoints people for leadership, and empowers those who serve Him. In these two chapters there is the account of Samuel anointing Saul privately (10:1), God changing Saul’s heart (10:9), the Spirit of God coming mightily upon Saul so that he prophesied among a group of prophets (10:10), and the public selection and anointing of Saul as king by Samuel (10:17-27). As I read this chapter, I am painfully aware of how Saul’s life ended up – jealous of David, taking matters into his own hands, rejecting God. But at this beginning of his being king, the events of chapter 10 are mysterious and inspiring. God was visibly at work through Samuel, and also in the life of Saul. Verse 26 records that “the valiant men whose hearts God had touched went with him.”
Reading this chapter I am impressed with the repetition of the work of God upon the hearts of men. Through his prophet, priest and judge Samuel God speaks, leads and directs. In Saul and others God changes hearts. As a “religious leader” I must constantly wait upon the Lord, discerning His leading, acting in faith upon what He instructs. I am reminded today that God is at work and that the “change of heart” is God’s realm. In 10 days my sermon will focus upon the changed heart, remembering John Wesley’s experience at Aldersgate, May 24, 1738.
From the United Methodist Website:
“In 1738, at the age of 34, John Wesley attended an evening worship service in London which moved him deeply. In his journal, Wesley described his "Aldersgate experience:"
In the evening I went very unwillingly to a society in Aldersgate Street, where one was reading Luther's preface to the Epistle to the Romans. About a quarter before nine, while the leader was describing the change which God works in the heart through faith in Christ, I felt my heart strangely warmed. I felt I did trust in Christ alone for salvation; and an assurance was given me that He had taken away my sins, even mine, and saved me from the law of sin and death.
Holy Lord, may I be consumed with a burning heart, trusting in You alone for salvation, sharing this good news with others, as I serve You today as pastor in the Wesley faith community.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
May 10, 2011
5-10-11 Tuesday, 6:52 am Springfield, 74 degrees, cloudy.
We had a very smooth trip home yesterday. I am still amazed at modern air travel, being able to wake up on the west coast and go to bed in the Midwest. I know this has been possible now for 50+ years, and it is still a wondrous feat of modern engineering and public safety. Yesterday morning I did run 6.4 miles, going north on Santa Anna to Colorado, and west toward Pasadena (with no sidewalk). My longer runs in California have been very strong. I am tentatively planning to run the Disney Marathon in January, 2012.
Today there will be much catching up at the office, worship planning at 10:15, and our Life Group meets tonight. I am missing the gathering of large church pastors in Columbia, yesterday and today, an event that I helped launch 10 years ago. Given the trip to California, there was no way I could attend.
I Sam 8-9
Samuel has grown old, appointed his sons as judges, and the people demand that he appoint a king over Israel, so they can be led like the neighboring countries. When Samuel takes this to God in prayer, God tells him “they have not rejected you, they have rejected Me.” Samuel is then instructed to warn the people about the costs of having a king – sons drafted, crops taxed, daughters conscripted for service of the king. The people heard this, and still demanded a king.
God led Saul into contact with Samuel, while he was looking for his father’s lost donkeys. At God’s direction, Samuel prepares to reveal to Saul that he will be the first king of Israel. He tells him not to worry anymore about his father’s donkeys, they have been located.
Reflecting on these two chapters, I realize that people often fail to recognize the Lordship of God, and desire a physical, human leader. Today I reaffirm the presence, power and authority of God, in my life and in the affairs of humankind. As Saul went about his ordinary daily work, God was preparing him for something greater, that he could not see (and in which he would eventually stumble and fall in a tragic fashion). I must daily be conscious of the unknowable plans that God has for my life, and for each of us, as I go about the “regular” work of the day. Guide and lead me today, o unseen hand and ruler of the universe.
We had a very smooth trip home yesterday. I am still amazed at modern air travel, being able to wake up on the west coast and go to bed in the Midwest. I know this has been possible now for 50+ years, and it is still a wondrous feat of modern engineering and public safety. Yesterday morning I did run 6.4 miles, going north on Santa Anna to Colorado, and west toward Pasadena (with no sidewalk). My longer runs in California have been very strong. I am tentatively planning to run the Disney Marathon in January, 2012.
Today there will be much catching up at the office, worship planning at 10:15, and our Life Group meets tonight. I am missing the gathering of large church pastors in Columbia, yesterday and today, an event that I helped launch 10 years ago. Given the trip to California, there was no way I could attend.
I Sam 8-9
Samuel has grown old, appointed his sons as judges, and the people demand that he appoint a king over Israel, so they can be led like the neighboring countries. When Samuel takes this to God in prayer, God tells him “they have not rejected you, they have rejected Me.” Samuel is then instructed to warn the people about the costs of having a king – sons drafted, crops taxed, daughters conscripted for service of the king. The people heard this, and still demanded a king.
God led Saul into contact with Samuel, while he was looking for his father’s lost donkeys. At God’s direction, Samuel prepares to reveal to Saul that he will be the first king of Israel. He tells him not to worry anymore about his father’s donkeys, they have been located.
Reflecting on these two chapters, I realize that people often fail to recognize the Lordship of God, and desire a physical, human leader. Today I reaffirm the presence, power and authority of God, in my life and in the affairs of humankind. As Saul went about his ordinary daily work, God was preparing him for something greater, that he could not see (and in which he would eventually stumble and fall in a tragic fashion). I must daily be conscious of the unknowable plans that God has for my life, and for each of us, as I go about the “regular” work of the day. Guide and lead me today, o unseen hand and ruler of the universe.
Monday, May 9, 2011
May 9, 2011
5-9-11 Monday, 6:55 am Arcadia, CA
We have had a great 3 days celebrating Bethany's graduation and mothers day. We travel home today leaving LAX around 2. I hope to run this morning before we start packing.
I Samuel 2-4
Samuel hears the voice of God and mistakes it for Eli the priest. The third time he heard it, Eli directed him to open himself up to the voice of God. The message Samuel heard was one of condemnation upon Eli and his sons. Samuel was reluctant to disclose this, but Eli was insistent, and he received the word from Samuel with resignation.
God's judgement is described as the Israelites go to war and get trounced, with the ark captured by the Philistines and Eli's two sons killed. Samuel's role as God's spokesman grows and spreads throughout Israel.
Guide me today Lord as I serve you and travel across this country by air.
We have had a great 3 days celebrating Bethany's graduation and mothers day. We travel home today leaving LAX around 2. I hope to run this morning before we start packing.
I Samuel 2-4
Samuel hears the voice of God and mistakes it for Eli the priest. The third time he heard it, Eli directed him to open himself up to the voice of God. The message Samuel heard was one of condemnation upon Eli and his sons. Samuel was reluctant to disclose this, but Eli was insistent, and he received the word from Samuel with resignation.
God's judgement is described as the Israelites go to war and get trounced, with the ark captured by the Philistines and Eli's two sons killed. Samuel's role as God's spokesman grows and spreads throughout Israel.
Guide me today Lord as I serve you and travel across this country by air.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
May 8, 2011
5-8-11 Sunday, 8:15 am Arcadia California, 57 degrees, raining
It is mothers day, and today as a family we have the privilege of being together for the day, following Bethany's graduation last night. We will share breakfast together here at the hotel, then church at Bethany's church, lunch with her voice teacher Pat, then the afternoon with my cousins Garry and Joyce.
I Samuel 1
Hannah is childless and prays that if God gives her a child, she will dedicate him completely to the Lord. Eli the priests mistakes her angony and silent prayer, thinking she is drunk. When she clarifies with him her pain and her prayer, he tells here that her prayer will be answered. And within the year she conceives and gives birth to a baby boy and names him Samuel.
As the time of the next trip to Shiloh to worship the Lord rolled around, she determined to stay home until the child was weaned. Her husband concurred stating "let God complete what He has begun."
On this mothers day Hannah stands out in special ways to me. The agony of being barren was overwhelming. Her husband's other wife (with many children) was cruel to her. God gave her a son, whom she dedicated completely to the service of God. Her husbands confirms her approach to raising the child with the clear understanding the God is at work, and in partnership with this mother will complete what he has begun.
As our two children are now young adults, I continue, along with Audrey, to trust and believe that God is completing in their lives what He has begun. This morning I am thankful for my family, and praying for the family of faith at Wesley and the work that God is completing among the congregation. I am especially conscious of the ones in pain this morning, like Hannah was, and who come to the place of worship hoping that God will provide what they need. Guide me today Lord as I serve You alone, and trust that You will complete what You have begun in my life.
It is mothers day, and today as a family we have the privilege of being together for the day, following Bethany's graduation last night. We will share breakfast together here at the hotel, then church at Bethany's church, lunch with her voice teacher Pat, then the afternoon with my cousins Garry and Joyce.
I Samuel 1
Hannah is childless and prays that if God gives her a child, she will dedicate him completely to the Lord. Eli the priests mistakes her angony and silent prayer, thinking she is drunk. When she clarifies with him her pain and her prayer, he tells here that her prayer will be answered. And within the year she conceives and gives birth to a baby boy and names him Samuel.
As the time of the next trip to Shiloh to worship the Lord rolled around, she determined to stay home until the child was weaned. Her husband concurred stating "let God complete what He has begun."
On this mothers day Hannah stands out in special ways to me. The agony of being barren was overwhelming. Her husband's other wife (with many children) was cruel to her. God gave her a son, whom she dedicated completely to the service of God. Her husbands confirms her approach to raising the child with the clear understanding the God is at work, and in partnership with this mother will complete what he has begun.
As our two children are now young adults, I continue, along with Audrey, to trust and believe that God is completing in their lives what He has begun. This morning I am thankful for my family, and praying for the family of faith at Wesley and the work that God is completing among the congregation. I am especially conscious of the ones in pain this morning, like Hannah was, and who come to the place of worship hoping that God will provide what they need. Guide me today Lord as I serve You alone, and trust that You will complete what You have begun in my life.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
May 7, 2011
5-7-11 Saturday, Arcadia, CA, 59 degrees, cloudy
Tonight Bethany graduates from Azusa Pacific University! We are enjoying all the festivities surrounding graduation. Yesterday was the service similar to baccalaureate, with good speeches and great worship music. This morning I ran 6.2 miles averaging 9:37 a mile and felt great.
Ruth 4
This final chapter of this short book paints the portrait of a faithful man, Boaz, marrying a faithful woman, Ruth, and God blessing them with a baby, Obed. The women of the community tell Naomi that her daughter-in-law is better to her than 7 sons would be! As it turns out, Obed becomes the grandfather of David.
God is faithful, and His ways are beyond our ways. I desire to live faithfully this life that God has entrusted to me, even though I cannot see the future impact and the fruit that has yet to ripen.
As I was running this morning I was thinking about my June sermon series on the book of Isaiah. One of his main themes is the warning not to trust in what is made by human hands - such as idols. In my generation, this is not little statues and trinkets, but essentially I see so many people trusting in technology. I have been thinking about using the space shuttle program as the modern metaphor with which to approach the 4-week series on Isaiah. At about mile 5 this morning, I thought about using the title "Take the Faith Shuttle with Isaiah". Some form of this might end up being the series title.
Guide me today most holy Lord as I live by faith, trusting completely in you.
Tonight Bethany graduates from Azusa Pacific University! We are enjoying all the festivities surrounding graduation. Yesterday was the service similar to baccalaureate, with good speeches and great worship music. This morning I ran 6.2 miles averaging 9:37 a mile and felt great.
Ruth 4
This final chapter of this short book paints the portrait of a faithful man, Boaz, marrying a faithful woman, Ruth, and God blessing them with a baby, Obed. The women of the community tell Naomi that her daughter-in-law is better to her than 7 sons would be! As it turns out, Obed becomes the grandfather of David.
God is faithful, and His ways are beyond our ways. I desire to live faithfully this life that God has entrusted to me, even though I cannot see the future impact and the fruit that has yet to ripen.
As I was running this morning I was thinking about my June sermon series on the book of Isaiah. One of his main themes is the warning not to trust in what is made by human hands - such as idols. In my generation, this is not little statues and trinkets, but essentially I see so many people trusting in technology. I have been thinking about using the space shuttle program as the modern metaphor with which to approach the 4-week series on Isaiah. At about mile 5 this morning, I thought about using the title "Take the Faith Shuttle with Isaiah". Some form of this might end up being the series title.
Guide me today most holy Lord as I live by faith, trusting completely in you.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
May 4, 2011
5-4-11 Wednesday, 6:49 am Springfield, 41 degrees, clear.
As I stepped out onto the deck, a ruby throated hummingbird was buzzing the feeder. On the fence the mail Eastern Bluebird was close to the nest where is wife is sitting on the 5 eggs. I opened the box yesterday to inspect and the very surprised momma was as startled as I was. I wonder when her eggs will hatch. The high is to be in the mid eighties by the weekend. I think I will plant a couple more of the tomato plants I have been raising. The ones already in the garden have been nibbled by critters, and the cold, cloudy days have not helped them any.
Today we have our executive staff meeting, pastors meeting in the afternoon, and staff parish tonight. I will participate in a book study with local pastors, mainly Baptist, at the neighboring Ridgecrest church at noon. We will be reviewing the book Five Ministry Killers and How to Defeat Them.
Here are the 5 (pastoral) ministry killers named by Charles Stone:
1. A head-in-the-sand mentality that denies problems
2. Emotional investment in the wrong issues
3. Unhealthy responses to ministry frustrations
4. A Lone Ranger attitude that says “God and I can handle this”
5. Attitudes and actions that lead to lonely, hurting spouses
The book itself seems to ramble, with helpful quotes from research and a wide range of authors. The author seeks to describe issues that lead to burnout and withdrawal from ministry in ways that assist a pastor to make adjustments and avoid crashing or bailing.
Judges 19-20
These chapters contain the grizzly tale of rape, desecration, murder and war. It starts with a man and his concubine. She leaves him at his remote home in the hill country of Ephraim, and after four months he goes to her fathers home in Bethlehem. Welcomed and entertained by her father, he parties there four and a half days. He doesn’t leave till late in the fifth day, and then faces nightfall in a strange place. Taken in a by an old man, troublemakers from the town surround the house, and this guy gives them his concubine to save his own skin. She is raped all night, and dies at the doorstep by morning. He is highly offended, and cuts her body into 12 pieces and sends a piece to each tribe, which rallies troops, attacks Gibeah and the Benjamites where the rape occurred. Thousands of men are killed on both sides.
Whenever I have read this account during the last 37 years of following Christ, I have cringed and lamented the multiple tragedies. It seems to me that the guy (he is unnamed, referred to as “the Levite”) is as guilty as any of wrongdoing. He does not have the discipline to depart from Bethlehem early enough to secure good lodging. When facing the threat of trouble, he does not defend the woman, but throws her to the dogs of the town. He then incites a war against the town.
As I sit in this comfortable house in this quiet neighborhood I hope that if and when faced with this kind of violence and evil I would not catipulate, but confront it. The book of Judges is gruesome and violent, during a time in Israel’s history when there was no king, and the people did as they pleased. Leadership and order are imperative for people to live harmonious lives. This is true in the church also. Guide me Lord as I serve in the pastoral office.
As I stepped out onto the deck, a ruby throated hummingbird was buzzing the feeder. On the fence the mail Eastern Bluebird was close to the nest where is wife is sitting on the 5 eggs. I opened the box yesterday to inspect and the very surprised momma was as startled as I was. I wonder when her eggs will hatch. The high is to be in the mid eighties by the weekend. I think I will plant a couple more of the tomato plants I have been raising. The ones already in the garden have been nibbled by critters, and the cold, cloudy days have not helped them any.
Today we have our executive staff meeting, pastors meeting in the afternoon, and staff parish tonight. I will participate in a book study with local pastors, mainly Baptist, at the neighboring Ridgecrest church at noon. We will be reviewing the book Five Ministry Killers and How to Defeat Them.
Here are the 5 (pastoral) ministry killers named by Charles Stone:
1. A head-in-the-sand mentality that denies problems
2. Emotional investment in the wrong issues
3. Unhealthy responses to ministry frustrations
4. A Lone Ranger attitude that says “God and I can handle this”
5. Attitudes and actions that lead to lonely, hurting spouses
The book itself seems to ramble, with helpful quotes from research and a wide range of authors. The author seeks to describe issues that lead to burnout and withdrawal from ministry in ways that assist a pastor to make adjustments and avoid crashing or bailing.
Judges 19-20
These chapters contain the grizzly tale of rape, desecration, murder and war. It starts with a man and his concubine. She leaves him at his remote home in the hill country of Ephraim, and after four months he goes to her fathers home in Bethlehem. Welcomed and entertained by her father, he parties there four and a half days. He doesn’t leave till late in the fifth day, and then faces nightfall in a strange place. Taken in a by an old man, troublemakers from the town surround the house, and this guy gives them his concubine to save his own skin. She is raped all night, and dies at the doorstep by morning. He is highly offended, and cuts her body into 12 pieces and sends a piece to each tribe, which rallies troops, attacks Gibeah and the Benjamites where the rape occurred. Thousands of men are killed on both sides.
Whenever I have read this account during the last 37 years of following Christ, I have cringed and lamented the multiple tragedies. It seems to me that the guy (he is unnamed, referred to as “the Levite”) is as guilty as any of wrongdoing. He does not have the discipline to depart from Bethlehem early enough to secure good lodging. When facing the threat of trouble, he does not defend the woman, but throws her to the dogs of the town. He then incites a war against the town.
As I sit in this comfortable house in this quiet neighborhood I hope that if and when faced with this kind of violence and evil I would not catipulate, but confront it. The book of Judges is gruesome and violent, during a time in Israel’s history when there was no king, and the people did as they pleased. Leadership and order are imperative for people to live harmonious lives. This is true in the church also. Guide me Lord as I serve in the pastoral office.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
May 3, 2011
5-3-11 Tuesday, 4:34 am Springfield, 38 degrees, clear.
There was almost a May frost last night, but I think my plants will be okay. Warm and sunny weather will follow for a couple of days. Audrey made it safely to Los Angeles last night. I will join her there on Thursday, as we prepare to celebrate Bethany’s graduation from college. Yesterday was well spent, with a trip to the radio station to record a promo for the APU choir and orchestra concert, a noon stop by the church to celebrate the birthday of one of our staff, barbequing in the afternoon, a 3.2 mile run (pathetically slow) and then to the airport with Audrey.
Judges 13-16 (yesterday I read the May 3 selection, as I was a day ahead of reality!)
This is the tragic story of Sampson. Reading these 4 chapters I have the following reflections:
1. The way God appeared to his parents in the form of an angel is similar to the angel appearances to Mary and Joseph
2. Sampson had a lack of wisdom with regards to women
a. He saw a Philistine, and convinced his parents to help him get her for his wife.
b. She pestered him to death to get the answer of the riddle he had proposed to the 30 men who partied with him, and on the 7th day he gave it to her, and she promptly broke his confidence and told the men
c. He went into a harlot and barely escaped the Philistines
d. He fell in love with Delilah, who like his first wife betrayed his confidence after pestering him to find out the source of his strength. When learning that shaving his head would eliminate his strength, she had someone do it while he slept on her lap. The Philistines captured him and gouged out his eyes.
3. God used Sampson as a judge of Israel for 20 years, even with his weaknesses. At the end of his life, he killed more Philistines in his death (collapsing the house) then he had in his life.
How can I apply these chapters to my life today? What is it that God wants me to obey from scripture? Here are a few possibilities: Order my life carefully, in what I eat, drink and do, as the Nazarite way was powerful in Sampson’s development. As I turned 50 I took a vow to consume no beverage alcohol, and God has been honoring that discipline. I will continue to eat healthy, good and clean food, and exercise regularly. I must be extremely careful in regards to the opposite gender, as God has blessed the marriage covenant with Audrey for now 28 years, and the evil one would destroy this if he could. I will lean upon the power of God in my life, and lean into the building up of the body of Christ with the strength that He has given me, today, and each day of my life.
For a book study tomorrow led by the pastors of Ridgecrest and Second Baptist, I will read a chapter from Charles Stone’s Five Ministry Killers and How to Defeat Them.
Thank you Lord for this day, and all that lies ahead. Guide the work you have entrusted to me, that I may faithfully serve as a pastor, shepherd and servant leader.
There was almost a May frost last night, but I think my plants will be okay. Warm and sunny weather will follow for a couple of days. Audrey made it safely to Los Angeles last night. I will join her there on Thursday, as we prepare to celebrate Bethany’s graduation from college. Yesterday was well spent, with a trip to the radio station to record a promo for the APU choir and orchestra concert, a noon stop by the church to celebrate the birthday of one of our staff, barbequing in the afternoon, a 3.2 mile run (pathetically slow) and then to the airport with Audrey.
Judges 13-16 (yesterday I read the May 3 selection, as I was a day ahead of reality!)
This is the tragic story of Sampson. Reading these 4 chapters I have the following reflections:
1. The way God appeared to his parents in the form of an angel is similar to the angel appearances to Mary and Joseph
2. Sampson had a lack of wisdom with regards to women
a. He saw a Philistine, and convinced his parents to help him get her for his wife.
b. She pestered him to death to get the answer of the riddle he had proposed to the 30 men who partied with him, and on the 7th day he gave it to her, and she promptly broke his confidence and told the men
c. He went into a harlot and barely escaped the Philistines
d. He fell in love with Delilah, who like his first wife betrayed his confidence after pestering him to find out the source of his strength. When learning that shaving his head would eliminate his strength, she had someone do it while he slept on her lap. The Philistines captured him and gouged out his eyes.
3. God used Sampson as a judge of Israel for 20 years, even with his weaknesses. At the end of his life, he killed more Philistines in his death (collapsing the house) then he had in his life.
How can I apply these chapters to my life today? What is it that God wants me to obey from scripture? Here are a few possibilities: Order my life carefully, in what I eat, drink and do, as the Nazarite way was powerful in Sampson’s development. As I turned 50 I took a vow to consume no beverage alcohol, and God has been honoring that discipline. I will continue to eat healthy, good and clean food, and exercise regularly. I must be extremely careful in regards to the opposite gender, as God has blessed the marriage covenant with Audrey for now 28 years, and the evil one would destroy this if he could. I will lean upon the power of God in my life, and lean into the building up of the body of Christ with the strength that He has given me, today, and each day of my life.
For a book study tomorrow led by the pastors of Ridgecrest and Second Baptist, I will read a chapter from Charles Stone’s Five Ministry Killers and How to Defeat Them.
Thank you Lord for this day, and all that lies ahead. Guide the work you have entrusted to me, that I may faithfully serve as a pastor, shepherd and servant leader.
Monday, May 2, 2011
May 2, 2011
5-2-11 Monday, 9:17 am Springfield, 42 degrees, cloudy.
Last night President Obama announced that U.S. forces had killed Osama bin Landin in Pakistan. Audrey and I watched the announcement live at about 10:30 pm our time. It is a significant event, the end of nearly 10 years of pursuit by the U.S. in response to his master minding the 9-11 attacks in 2001.
Judges 17:1- 18:31
These chapters contain the strange account of Micah in the hill country of Ephraim. The tribe of Dan eventually stole his household idols and his personal priest. The tribe of Dan had not yet moved into the land assigned to them when the land was divided among the tribes of Israel.
My take away this morning is to observe that there was disobedience throughout this account, from the household idols to the personal priest. The last verse summarizes it “So Micah’s carved image was worshiped by the tribe of Dan as long as the Tabernacle of God remained at Shiloh” (18:31)
Guide me on this day of rest, most holy Lord as I seek to honor You in all I do. I will worship nothing and nobody except You.
Psalm 104:1 “Let all that I am praise the Lord. O Lord, my God, how great you are! You are robed with honor and majesty.”
Last night President Obama announced that U.S. forces had killed Osama bin Landin in Pakistan. Audrey and I watched the announcement live at about 10:30 pm our time. It is a significant event, the end of nearly 10 years of pursuit by the U.S. in response to his master minding the 9-11 attacks in 2001.
Judges 17:1- 18:31
These chapters contain the strange account of Micah in the hill country of Ephraim. The tribe of Dan eventually stole his household idols and his personal priest. The tribe of Dan had not yet moved into the land assigned to them when the land was divided among the tribes of Israel.
My take away this morning is to observe that there was disobedience throughout this account, from the household idols to the personal priest. The last verse summarizes it “So Micah’s carved image was worshiped by the tribe of Dan as long as the Tabernacle of God remained at Shiloh” (18:31)
Guide me on this day of rest, most holy Lord as I seek to honor You in all I do. I will worship nothing and nobody except You.
Psalm 104:1 “Let all that I am praise the Lord. O Lord, my God, how great you are! You are robed with honor and majesty.”
Sunday, May 1, 2011
May 1, 2011
5-1-11 Sunday, 5:36 am Springfield, 46 degrees, cloudy.
Last Sunday at this time I was on my way downtown, heading for the Easter community worship service at the Hammonds ball field. Today I am preparing for communion and confirmation at Wesley. Yesterday Audrey made phone calls inviting members to host college students on May 12, the Thursday that the APU choir and orchestra will come to Springfield for a concert at Wesley.
Mark 14:32-41
My sermon title is “R U Ready” and this account in scripture is of disciples who were clearly not ready. They kept falling asleep as Jesus was pouring his heart out in the garden of Gethsemane. Proverbs 24:30-34 is another picture of not being ready:
“I passed by the field of the sluggard, and by the vineyard of the man lacking sense; and behold it was completely overgrown with thistles. Its surface was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down. When I saw, I reflected upon it; I looked and received instruction. A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, then your poverty will come as a robber, and your want like an armed man.”
As a follower of Christ I never want to fall asleep when He has given a task. As a pastor, tending a spiritual vineyard, I never want lack of preparation to erode effectiveness. Recognizing the need for proper rest, and also the weakness of the flesh, I intend to move forward in faith, obedience and love. Lord, lead me today according to Your grace and mercy, that my steps may be ordered by you.
Last Sunday at this time I was on my way downtown, heading for the Easter community worship service at the Hammonds ball field. Today I am preparing for communion and confirmation at Wesley. Yesterday Audrey made phone calls inviting members to host college students on May 12, the Thursday that the APU choir and orchestra will come to Springfield for a concert at Wesley.
Mark 14:32-41
My sermon title is “R U Ready” and this account in scripture is of disciples who were clearly not ready. They kept falling asleep as Jesus was pouring his heart out in the garden of Gethsemane. Proverbs 24:30-34 is another picture of not being ready:
“I passed by the field of the sluggard, and by the vineyard of the man lacking sense; and behold it was completely overgrown with thistles. Its surface was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken down. When I saw, I reflected upon it; I looked and received instruction. A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, then your poverty will come as a robber, and your want like an armed man.”
As a follower of Christ I never want to fall asleep when He has given a task. As a pastor, tending a spiritual vineyard, I never want lack of preparation to erode effectiveness. Recognizing the need for proper rest, and also the weakness of the flesh, I intend to move forward in faith, obedience and love. Lord, lead me today according to Your grace and mercy, that my steps may be ordered by you.
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