7-31-11 Sunday, 5:28 am Springfield, 77 degrees, lightening.
I am looking forward to this morning of worship. Matt will be preaching in the 3 sanctuary services, I will be in those services, and I will be preaching in the gym service, attending it from start to finish. As we work on discerning a better way for Sunday morning’s schedule, we are experimenting with 2 preachers each Sunday, and will propose a shift in service times to take effect in January. Perhaps only the start time of one of the four services will be changed.
Romans 15
In verse 14 Paul expresses his confidence in the believers in Rome, that they are “full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, and able to instruct one another.” This is the goal of apostles, prophets, pastors and teachers, i.e., the building up of the body of Christ until “we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:13)
Paul went on to say that his calling was “to proclaim the good news, not where Christ has already been named, so that I do not build on someone else’s foundation…” (Verse 20). I was visiting with a pastor named Randy last week who is called to share Christ with “unreached peoples”, and is doing so, and training others to do so in powerful ways.
The mission of Wesley United Methodist Church in Springfield Missouri is “to develop more fruitful disciples of Jesus Christ who worship, care, and serve.” I am thankful to be a pastor of this faith community during these years. Guide me this morning Lord as I lead with faith and the presence of Your Spirit. Use me in unique and creative ways today, Creator of all things.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Friday, July 29, 2011
July 29, 2011
7-29-11 Friday, 7:18 am Springfield, 76 degrees sunny
David and Danelle arrived last night, as did Audrey. They picked her up at the airport as she was returning from a week away in Baltimore and Lynchburg. In their journey to purchase their first home, they placed a contract on a house in O’Fallon yesterday (unseen yet by Danelle) and it was accepted! Now for the inspections, financing, etc. They will be visiting here until Sunday, and it is so good to see them. Audrey had a great time visiting with her brother’s family and the Rickets’.
Today I will be in and out of the office, with a wedding rehearsal tonight. I will be preaching the same sermon in the gym on our Lutheran roots as I preached last week in the three sanctuary services. Next week I will wrap up this series with a message on the Pentecostal/Charismatic roots, with the emphasis on experience and power in the believer’s life. I have a book by Clare Weakley entitled John Wesley - The Holy Spirit and Power which is her paraphrase of selected writings by Wesley on this topic.
Romans 14
This entire chapter contains instructions about how to live by faith and not judge other believers who have different practices, nor do things that would make other Christians stumble in their walk. The specific issues in Paul’s day were the honoring of special days, and the eating of meat that had been prepared in pagan temples. In verses 1-12 he instructs us not to judge others who are seeking to please God and in their practice they feel led to do or avoid certain things. “Each of us will be accountable to God.”(Verse 12) In verses 13-23 he emphasizes the impact of our choices on other believers, and the importance to live in such a way that someone whose faith is growing will not be confused by what you do in the freedom you experience in Christ. Paul was convinced that all meat is “clean”, and in verse 15 he says “If your brother or sister is being injured by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love.”
The conclusion stated in verses 22-23 is vital: “The faith that you have, have as your own conviction before God. Blessed are those who have no reason to condemn themselves because of what they approve.” The content of this chapter led me to make the commitment as I turned 50 to abstain from beverage alcohol for two reasons – first, because of how it would impact other believers, those who struggle with addiction and those who are convinced it is sinful, and second because of the potential impairment to my availability at any time day or night to respond to a pastoral need. Up until the age of 50 I would have a glass of wine occasionally with my wife, and a beer now and then with my pastor buddies. I am convinced that my present approach is healthy, and this chapter of Romans has many practical implications for believers, especially as each person interprets God’s word, and applies it in their specific culture and context.
Guide me Holy Lord as I serve you in this present age, and look forward to the age to come!
David and Danelle arrived last night, as did Audrey. They picked her up at the airport as she was returning from a week away in Baltimore and Lynchburg. In their journey to purchase their first home, they placed a contract on a house in O’Fallon yesterday (unseen yet by Danelle) and it was accepted! Now for the inspections, financing, etc. They will be visiting here until Sunday, and it is so good to see them. Audrey had a great time visiting with her brother’s family and the Rickets’.
Today I will be in and out of the office, with a wedding rehearsal tonight. I will be preaching the same sermon in the gym on our Lutheran roots as I preached last week in the three sanctuary services. Next week I will wrap up this series with a message on the Pentecostal/Charismatic roots, with the emphasis on experience and power in the believer’s life. I have a book by Clare Weakley entitled John Wesley - The Holy Spirit and Power which is her paraphrase of selected writings by Wesley on this topic.
Romans 14
This entire chapter contains instructions about how to live by faith and not judge other believers who have different practices, nor do things that would make other Christians stumble in their walk. The specific issues in Paul’s day were the honoring of special days, and the eating of meat that had been prepared in pagan temples. In verses 1-12 he instructs us not to judge others who are seeking to please God and in their practice they feel led to do or avoid certain things. “Each of us will be accountable to God.”(Verse 12) In verses 13-23 he emphasizes the impact of our choices on other believers, and the importance to live in such a way that someone whose faith is growing will not be confused by what you do in the freedom you experience in Christ. Paul was convinced that all meat is “clean”, and in verse 15 he says “If your brother or sister is being injured by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love.”
The conclusion stated in verses 22-23 is vital: “The faith that you have, have as your own conviction before God. Blessed are those who have no reason to condemn themselves because of what they approve.” The content of this chapter led me to make the commitment as I turned 50 to abstain from beverage alcohol for two reasons – first, because of how it would impact other believers, those who struggle with addiction and those who are convinced it is sinful, and second because of the potential impairment to my availability at any time day or night to respond to a pastoral need. Up until the age of 50 I would have a glass of wine occasionally with my wife, and a beer now and then with my pastor buddies. I am convinced that my present approach is healthy, and this chapter of Romans has many practical implications for believers, especially as each person interprets God’s word, and applies it in their specific culture and context.
Guide me Holy Lord as I serve you in this present age, and look forward to the age to come!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
July 28, 2011
7-28-11 Thursday, 5:12 am Springfield, 77 degrees (high yesterday 101).
I am enjoying this hot summer! Yesterday was a very full day of pastoral work, including the hiring of an additional fulltime staff, a precious visit with a family celebrating the birth of their third child (I got to hold the 17 hour-old baby!), correspondence in the afternoon, wedding planning, and the benefit dinner for Danny Smith which went very well, and in which were auctioned off 3 one-hour flights with me. The Cherokee 140 is now back on line, with the small intake manifold leak repaired. Audrey comes home today, and David and Danelle arrive with her tonight for a week-end visit. I will be doing some housecleaning today!
Romans 13
Verses 1-7 describe the subjection that every follower of Christ should observe in relationship to governing authorities, because “there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.” The practical outworking of this is summarized in verse 7: “Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.” It is one thing to read this section as a citizen of the United States, it is far different to read it as a citizen of a country where the government is directly opposed to Christianity, and the followers of Christ are persecuted, as they were for example in Nazi Germany.
Verses 8-14 contain many practical admonitions: “Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another.” (8) “Let us behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy.” (13) “But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts.” (14)
Today, most Holy Lord, I put on the Lord Jesus Christ. May my actions, thoughts and plans be clothed in the love of Jesus as I make no provision for the flesh, and as I am in subjection to the governing authorities. Guard me from haughtiness and arrogance. Guide my reading, my thinking, my acting, my serving, my leading on this day which is a gift from You.
I am enjoying this hot summer! Yesterday was a very full day of pastoral work, including the hiring of an additional fulltime staff, a precious visit with a family celebrating the birth of their third child (I got to hold the 17 hour-old baby!), correspondence in the afternoon, wedding planning, and the benefit dinner for Danny Smith which went very well, and in which were auctioned off 3 one-hour flights with me. The Cherokee 140 is now back on line, with the small intake manifold leak repaired. Audrey comes home today, and David and Danelle arrive with her tonight for a week-end visit. I will be doing some housecleaning today!
Romans 13
Verses 1-7 describe the subjection that every follower of Christ should observe in relationship to governing authorities, because “there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.” The practical outworking of this is summarized in verse 7: “Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.” It is one thing to read this section as a citizen of the United States, it is far different to read it as a citizen of a country where the government is directly opposed to Christianity, and the followers of Christ are persecuted, as they were for example in Nazi Germany.
Verses 8-14 contain many practical admonitions: “Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another.” (8) “Let us behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy.” (13) “But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts.” (14)
Today, most Holy Lord, I put on the Lord Jesus Christ. May my actions, thoughts and plans be clothed in the love of Jesus as I make no provision for the flesh, and as I am in subjection to the governing authorities. Guard me from haughtiness and arrogance. Guide my reading, my thinking, my acting, my serving, my leading on this day which is a gift from You.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
July 27, 2011
7-27-11 Wednesday, 6:30 am Springfield, 76 warm degrees.
The Equipping Church by Sue Mallory draws its theme from Ephesians 4:11-12: “And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ.”
As staff we are studying this book, beginning this morning. Mallory has been a church staff person, and has consulted widely with other churches. We at Wesley are already moving in the directions she suggest, and her book will give us even more tangible examples and impetus.
Since the 1970s I have seen the role of pastors and teachers as being to “equip the saints for the work of ministry”, and all along I have recognized how hard it is to equip others and set them to doing the work of ministry, when pastors are spiritually gifted for the work of ministry. If pastors simply do the work of ministry, then 50 – 70 people are the maximum that can be effectively brought to the unity of the faith, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ. (Eph 4:13)
Guide me today Lord in all my serving and equipping. Guard me from doing what I should be equipping others to do. Bless my family members who today are in Los Angeles, St. Louis, and Lynchburg, Virginia
The Equipping Church by Sue Mallory draws its theme from Ephesians 4:11-12: “And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ.”
As staff we are studying this book, beginning this morning. Mallory has been a church staff person, and has consulted widely with other churches. We at Wesley are already moving in the directions she suggest, and her book will give us even more tangible examples and impetus.
Since the 1970s I have seen the role of pastors and teachers as being to “equip the saints for the work of ministry”, and all along I have recognized how hard it is to equip others and set them to doing the work of ministry, when pastors are spiritually gifted for the work of ministry. If pastors simply do the work of ministry, then 50 – 70 people are the maximum that can be effectively brought to the unity of the faith, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ. (Eph 4:13)
Guide me today Lord in all my serving and equipping. Guard me from doing what I should be equipping others to do. Bless my family members who today are in Los Angeles, St. Louis, and Lynchburg, Virginia
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
July 26, 2011
7-26-11 Tuesday, 6:18 am Springfield, 75 muggy degrees
Yesterday I took my nephew fishing at Roaring River State Park. For the first time, I was skunked, no fish to take home from this trout stream. We had a good time, the cloud cover kept the temperature low, and we fished hard for 4 hours. Last evening I read from Bonhoeffer’s Ethics, posthumously compiled from his notes and scraps. I also viewed a documentary about his life, and continued reading the Metaxas biography. I desire to read again The Cost of Discipleship, and compare it to the book Steve Rakin is publishing on growing a mature faith. It has also occurred to me to compare Bonhoeffer and John Wesley on discipleship. I wonder if anyone has published such a comparison?
Today will be a regular day at the office, with staff prayer time, worship planning, administrative tasks, planning and scheduling. I will also read and prepare for the first chapters of The Equipping Church, which we will discuss in tomorrow’s staff meeting. I have a lunch at Millie’s around the topic of the Council of Churches, and their visioning process. I will bring up the topic of Mission Arlington. Tonight I will attend the Springfield Cardinal baseball game with one of our members who loves baseball and whose wife is also out of town.
Romans 12
This is one of my favorite chapters of the New Testament, which I memorized in 1979. Today I read it in light of the life of Bonhoeffer with great application: “present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice…(verse 1) “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love” (verse 10) “Bless those who persecute you; bless and curse not.” (verse 14) “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (verse 21) Bonhoeffer presented his body as a sacrifice, in life and in his execution, he wrote Life Together about the body of Christ living together in brotherly love, he blessed his persecutors, making friends with many of the prison guards, and he was not overcome by the evil of the Nazis, but overcame evil with good.
Currently we do not live in an era as conflicted as Germany in the 1930s and 40s. As I look out my window I see a peaceful subdivision on the outskirts of an exceptional city (Springfield) in a delightful area (the Ozarks). I also realize the reality of the unseen struggle between good and evil which can become visible on any given day (such as the killings in Norway last week).
Guide me Holy Lord as I present my body a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to You, which is my spiritual service of worship. Guard me from being conformed to this world, but let me be transformed by the renewing of my mind, that I may prove what Your will is, that which is good, and acceptable and perfect. Amen!
Yesterday I took my nephew fishing at Roaring River State Park. For the first time, I was skunked, no fish to take home from this trout stream. We had a good time, the cloud cover kept the temperature low, and we fished hard for 4 hours. Last evening I read from Bonhoeffer’s Ethics, posthumously compiled from his notes and scraps. I also viewed a documentary about his life, and continued reading the Metaxas biography. I desire to read again The Cost of Discipleship, and compare it to the book Steve Rakin is publishing on growing a mature faith. It has also occurred to me to compare Bonhoeffer and John Wesley on discipleship. I wonder if anyone has published such a comparison?
Today will be a regular day at the office, with staff prayer time, worship planning, administrative tasks, planning and scheduling. I will also read and prepare for the first chapters of The Equipping Church, which we will discuss in tomorrow’s staff meeting. I have a lunch at Millie’s around the topic of the Council of Churches, and their visioning process. I will bring up the topic of Mission Arlington. Tonight I will attend the Springfield Cardinal baseball game with one of our members who loves baseball and whose wife is also out of town.
Romans 12
This is one of my favorite chapters of the New Testament, which I memorized in 1979. Today I read it in light of the life of Bonhoeffer with great application: “present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice…(verse 1) “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love” (verse 10) “Bless those who persecute you; bless and curse not.” (verse 14) “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (verse 21) Bonhoeffer presented his body as a sacrifice, in life and in his execution, he wrote Life Together about the body of Christ living together in brotherly love, he blessed his persecutors, making friends with many of the prison guards, and he was not overcome by the evil of the Nazis, but overcame evil with good.
Currently we do not live in an era as conflicted as Germany in the 1930s and 40s. As I look out my window I see a peaceful subdivision on the outskirts of an exceptional city (Springfield) in a delightful area (the Ozarks). I also realize the reality of the unseen struggle between good and evil which can become visible on any given day (such as the killings in Norway last week).
Guide me Holy Lord as I present my body a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to You, which is my spiritual service of worship. Guard me from being conformed to this world, but let me be transformed by the renewing of my mind, that I may prove what Your will is, that which is good, and acceptable and perfect. Amen!
Sunday, July 24, 2011
July 24, 2011
7-24-11 Sunday, 5:34 am Springfield, 78 degrees, last quarter moon and morning star bright overhead.
I am looking forward to this morning. The house is quiet, and my heart is stilled before God. Due to the tragic 92 deaths in Norway at the hand of a 32 year-old I have been reading about the history and people of Norway. Its population (4.9 million) is about a million less than the population of Missouri. It officially remained neutral during WW I and II, but suffered much in both wars, being occupied for 5 years by the Nazis.
Last night at 10 o’clock I took a collect call from the Greene County jail. My homeless friend Skip has been there for a couple of weeks, and read me something he had written yesterday, about playing catch when he was a kid with another kid who turned out to be Satan. He has struggled with drugs, addictions, and crime all his life. I will write him today, and visit him on Friday evening.
As I was working on my sermon yesterday I developed a real excitement, a passion for the three applications – read your Bible, salvation by grace through faith, and love the church, risking all to reform it. My challenge today (as it was last week) is to cover the historical material and have enough time to develop the personal application points.
Ephesians 2:4-10
“For we are his workmanship (poema) created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Verse 10) This section of scripture (Eph 2:4-10) is packed with richness and meaning. It is not too long to be read at once, but even this 10th verse has so much in it that I could chew on it all day and not exhaust its spiritual substance.
Bonhoeffer, writing in Life Together comments on how much is too much scripture to be read. “Not only the young Christian but also the adult Christian will complain that the Scripture reading is often too long for him and that much therein he does not understand. To this it must be said that for the mature Christian every Scripture reading will be ‘too long,’ even the shortest one. What does this mean? The Scripture is a whole and every word, every sentence possesses such multiple relationships with the whole that it is impossible always to keep the whole in view when listening to details. It becomes apparent, therefore, that the whole of Scripture and hence every passage in it as well far surpasses our understanding. It is good for us to be daily reminded of this fact, which again points to Jesus Christ himself…”
Guide me Holy Lord today as I point to You, through the scripture, Luther, Bonhoeffer and my own life experiences. May your Holy Spirit be preparing hearers throughout the morning to experience You in a fresh, new way today.
I am looking forward to this morning. The house is quiet, and my heart is stilled before God. Due to the tragic 92 deaths in Norway at the hand of a 32 year-old I have been reading about the history and people of Norway. Its population (4.9 million) is about a million less than the population of Missouri. It officially remained neutral during WW I and II, but suffered much in both wars, being occupied for 5 years by the Nazis.
Last night at 10 o’clock I took a collect call from the Greene County jail. My homeless friend Skip has been there for a couple of weeks, and read me something he had written yesterday, about playing catch when he was a kid with another kid who turned out to be Satan. He has struggled with drugs, addictions, and crime all his life. I will write him today, and visit him on Friday evening.
As I was working on my sermon yesterday I developed a real excitement, a passion for the three applications – read your Bible, salvation by grace through faith, and love the church, risking all to reform it. My challenge today (as it was last week) is to cover the historical material and have enough time to develop the personal application points.
Ephesians 2:4-10
“For we are his workmanship (poema) created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Verse 10) This section of scripture (Eph 2:4-10) is packed with richness and meaning. It is not too long to be read at once, but even this 10th verse has so much in it that I could chew on it all day and not exhaust its spiritual substance.
Bonhoeffer, writing in Life Together comments on how much is too much scripture to be read. “Not only the young Christian but also the adult Christian will complain that the Scripture reading is often too long for him and that much therein he does not understand. To this it must be said that for the mature Christian every Scripture reading will be ‘too long,’ even the shortest one. What does this mean? The Scripture is a whole and every word, every sentence possesses such multiple relationships with the whole that it is impossible always to keep the whole in view when listening to details. It becomes apparent, therefore, that the whole of Scripture and hence every passage in it as well far surpasses our understanding. It is good for us to be daily reminded of this fact, which again points to Jesus Christ himself…”
Guide me Holy Lord today as I point to You, through the scripture, Luther, Bonhoeffer and my own life experiences. May your Holy Spirit be preparing hearers throughout the morning to experience You in a fresh, new way today.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
July 23, 2011
7-23-11 Saturday, 6:56 am Springfield, 78 degrees.
Romans 10
“The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart … that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved; for with the heart man believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.” (8-10)
This is one of the most basic and clear statements of how a person responds to God’s offer, by confessing and believing. It almost seems too simple, and has been minimized by some.
My message tomorrow reviews the contribution made by Martin Luther, including the primacy of the Bible, and the simple profound truth of salvation by grace through faith. The United Methodist Church, now 227 years old at times has strayed from these simple yet profound aspects. As a pastor I am glad to be preaching the simple and profound truths, with the goal of increasing the number and the fruitfulness of disciples of Jesus Christ in 2011 and beyond.
10:45 am – Home from early morning at Wesley.
I attended the United Methodist Men’s monthly breakfast and heard a great talk by Matt Kerner. He shared a little of his story and the details of reaching college-aged people with emphasis in “connect, grow, and worship” (three aspects of the “develop” in the Wesley mission statement). He defined four types of relationships college age students form: social (frequency), task oriented, spiritual (shared values) and meaningful (long duration). Our goal is to provide the context and encouragement for these relationships to by shaped around Christ, which transforms a person’s life forever.
Guide us Lord as we serve You in this generation, as Martin Luther did in his, John Wesley in his, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his. May my days and nights have a contemporary impact, and through writing and relationships impact generations to come.
Romans 10
“The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart … that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved; for with the heart man believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.” (8-10)
This is one of the most basic and clear statements of how a person responds to God’s offer, by confessing and believing. It almost seems too simple, and has been minimized by some.
My message tomorrow reviews the contribution made by Martin Luther, including the primacy of the Bible, and the simple profound truth of salvation by grace through faith. The United Methodist Church, now 227 years old at times has strayed from these simple yet profound aspects. As a pastor I am glad to be preaching the simple and profound truths, with the goal of increasing the number and the fruitfulness of disciples of Jesus Christ in 2011 and beyond.
10:45 am – Home from early morning at Wesley.
I attended the United Methodist Men’s monthly breakfast and heard a great talk by Matt Kerner. He shared a little of his story and the details of reaching college-aged people with emphasis in “connect, grow, and worship” (three aspects of the “develop” in the Wesley mission statement). He defined four types of relationships college age students form: social (frequency), task oriented, spiritual (shared values) and meaningful (long duration). Our goal is to provide the context and encouragement for these relationships to by shaped around Christ, which transforms a person’s life forever.
Guide us Lord as we serve You in this generation, as Martin Luther did in his, John Wesley in his, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his. May my days and nights have a contemporary impact, and through writing and relationships impact generations to come.
Friday, July 22, 2011
July 22, 2011
7-22-11 Friday, 7:49 am Springfield, 79 degrees, clear
The tempo of my day changed yesterday afternoon when I learned that one of our members was in the hospital and requesting a visit. I aborted my sermon planning work and went to the hospital and had a meaningful visit with the patient’s family. I was able to visit a second patient and had great interaction. My travels next took me to the Eaglecrest Counseling office to set up some sessions for a person under much duress. Dinner at Cielito Lindo included preparation for the 7:00 meeting of the Ministry Audit task force. After the meeting I went to the gym for healthy exercise in a climate controlled environment. I almost ran outside at noon, just to laugh in the face of the heat, but decided that wisdom should prevail.
Romans 9 – Israel’s past, present and future
The apostle describes his great sorrow and unceasing anguish in his heart for his own people, the Jews. Even as to them belongs the adoption, the glory, the covenants (verse4). Paul concludes in verses 30-33 that Israel strived for righteousness, not on the basis of faith but on the basis of works, and has stumbled over the stumbling stone (Christ). Gentiles have attained righteousness by faith in Christ.
Martin Luther, in his commentary on Romans, describes most of Israel as carnal, children of the flesh and descended from the fathers according to their flesh (corrupt nature). This is a continuation of previous teaching in Romans, and also refers to Abraham’s two sons – one of the flesh (Ishmael) and one of faith (Isaac). The take away for me today is to be careful to live by faith, and not according to the flesh. I have died with Christ to the flesh, and daily I must die to the carnal nature and live by faith, not by sight. Guide me in this journey today, most holy Lord.
On the news this morning is the humanitarian tragedy unfolding in southern Somalia and northern Ethiopia, where perhaps a million people are in danger of starving, due to the drought, and to the armed conflict in Somalia, preventing world relief resources from reaching the desperate people. The neediest place on the planet is also the most dangerous. What is the witness and role of believers in addressing this need? Yesterday as I met with Randy Copeland at his mission training facility I was infected with his passion for taking Christ to the nations through evangelism, compassion and discipleship.
The tempo of my day changed yesterday afternoon when I learned that one of our members was in the hospital and requesting a visit. I aborted my sermon planning work and went to the hospital and had a meaningful visit with the patient’s family. I was able to visit a second patient and had great interaction. My travels next took me to the Eaglecrest Counseling office to set up some sessions for a person under much duress. Dinner at Cielito Lindo included preparation for the 7:00 meeting of the Ministry Audit task force. After the meeting I went to the gym for healthy exercise in a climate controlled environment. I almost ran outside at noon, just to laugh in the face of the heat, but decided that wisdom should prevail.
Romans 9 – Israel’s past, present and future
The apostle describes his great sorrow and unceasing anguish in his heart for his own people, the Jews. Even as to them belongs the adoption, the glory, the covenants (verse4). Paul concludes in verses 30-33 that Israel strived for righteousness, not on the basis of faith but on the basis of works, and has stumbled over the stumbling stone (Christ). Gentiles have attained righteousness by faith in Christ.
Martin Luther, in his commentary on Romans, describes most of Israel as carnal, children of the flesh and descended from the fathers according to their flesh (corrupt nature). This is a continuation of previous teaching in Romans, and also refers to Abraham’s two sons – one of the flesh (Ishmael) and one of faith (Isaac). The take away for me today is to be careful to live by faith, and not according to the flesh. I have died with Christ to the flesh, and daily I must die to the carnal nature and live by faith, not by sight. Guide me in this journey today, most holy Lord.
On the news this morning is the humanitarian tragedy unfolding in southern Somalia and northern Ethiopia, where perhaps a million people are in danger of starving, due to the drought, and to the armed conflict in Somalia, preventing world relief resources from reaching the desperate people. The neediest place on the planet is also the most dangerous. What is the witness and role of believers in addressing this need? Yesterday as I met with Randy Copeland at his mission training facility I was infected with his passion for taking Christ to the nations through evangelism, compassion and discipleship.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
July 21, 2011
7-21-11 Thursday, 6:41 am Springfield, 75 degrees, clear, heading for high of 100 today.
This hot weather is covered on the local and national news, with the warnings covering 35 states. It does not seem unusual to me that it is hot in July. I am very thankful for the modern convenience of air conditioning – at home, in our cars and at work. Without air conditioning, this heat would be oppressive.
Yesterday it was hard to say good bye to Audrey for eight days. She is currently on an airplane in St. Louis, headed for Baltimore. I have designed a schedule for these days that will focus on sermon preparation and planning. Last night I worked on my sermon for this Sunday as I researched Luther, and also signed a large stack of letters. Tonight I have a meeting with the Mission Audit team.
Romans 8 (NLT)
“And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.” (verse 2) I read this verse in the context of having read chapter 7 yesterday, and researching Martin Luther’s struggle with the oppression of the church after he experienced the power of the life-giving Spirit. I have been blessed with belonging to Christ, and experiencing this life-giving power and also the freedom from the power of sin. I cannot explain it, but I have clearly experienced it, beginning in August of 1974, and right up to this present moment.
Lord, today I walk in the power of your life-giving Spirit in Springfield, Missouri. Guide my steps, use me as your servant in building your kingdom and increasing the fruit of righteousness in this generation.
This hot weather is covered on the local and national news, with the warnings covering 35 states. It does not seem unusual to me that it is hot in July. I am very thankful for the modern convenience of air conditioning – at home, in our cars and at work. Without air conditioning, this heat would be oppressive.
Yesterday it was hard to say good bye to Audrey for eight days. She is currently on an airplane in St. Louis, headed for Baltimore. I have designed a schedule for these days that will focus on sermon preparation and planning. Last night I worked on my sermon for this Sunday as I researched Luther, and also signed a large stack of letters. Tonight I have a meeting with the Mission Audit team.
Romans 8 (NLT)
“And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.” (verse 2) I read this verse in the context of having read chapter 7 yesterday, and researching Martin Luther’s struggle with the oppression of the church after he experienced the power of the life-giving Spirit. I have been blessed with belonging to Christ, and experiencing this life-giving power and also the freedom from the power of sin. I cannot explain it, but I have clearly experienced it, beginning in August of 1974, and right up to this present moment.
Lord, today I walk in the power of your life-giving Spirit in Springfield, Missouri. Guide my steps, use me as your servant in building your kingdom and increasing the fruit of righteousness in this generation.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
July 20, 2011
7-20-11 Wednesday, 6:53 am Springfield, 75 degrees, clear
Romans 7
This chapter addresses the topic of the Law, and its jurisdiction. Paul uses the analogy of marriage to introduce the topic, saying that as long as a woman’s husband is alive, she is bound by law to him, but if her husband dies, she is released from the law concerning her husband. (verse 2) Paul applies this to believers in verse 4: “you also were made to die to the Law through the body of Christ, that you might be joined to another, to Him who was raised from the dead, that we might bear fruit for God.”
My sincere desire is to bear fruit for God. This is the mission statement of Wesley –“to develop more fruitful disciples of Jesus Christ who worship, care, and serve. Last night our small group met at church. Given the summer schedule it was not clear who would attend, and 5 of the 6 men where there, plus one of the women. We had a great session, watching Tim Keller ask non-believers their thoughts about the objection to Christianity which involves the question – who can God be both a God of wrath and also full of love. It had been a month since we had met, and it was great to catch up. We brought wedding pictures to use as the icebreaker, and we have all been married between 20-30 years.
Audrey leaves this morning for her 8 day trip out East. She will visit her brother John and his family in Baltimore, and the Rickerts in Virginia. While she is gone, I will designate my time for a week of sermon planning and writing, similar to my annual week away, except I will daily attend to the office and pastoral duties as needed. I will miss her greatly, as we have spent much meaningful time together in the last few weeks. And, solitude is good for me, I need it from time to time to focus, plan and think. I will not indulge in watching television other than the occasional news during these days.
Guide me most Holy Lord as I journey today, that I might bear fruit for you. In my every thought, action, prayer, visit, plan and discernment let me follow your plan for my life, and live fully this day in your will.
Romans 7
This chapter addresses the topic of the Law, and its jurisdiction. Paul uses the analogy of marriage to introduce the topic, saying that as long as a woman’s husband is alive, she is bound by law to him, but if her husband dies, she is released from the law concerning her husband. (verse 2) Paul applies this to believers in verse 4: “you also were made to die to the Law through the body of Christ, that you might be joined to another, to Him who was raised from the dead, that we might bear fruit for God.”
My sincere desire is to bear fruit for God. This is the mission statement of Wesley –“to develop more fruitful disciples of Jesus Christ who worship, care, and serve. Last night our small group met at church. Given the summer schedule it was not clear who would attend, and 5 of the 6 men where there, plus one of the women. We had a great session, watching Tim Keller ask non-believers their thoughts about the objection to Christianity which involves the question – who can God be both a God of wrath and also full of love. It had been a month since we had met, and it was great to catch up. We brought wedding pictures to use as the icebreaker, and we have all been married between 20-30 years.
Audrey leaves this morning for her 8 day trip out East. She will visit her brother John and his family in Baltimore, and the Rickerts in Virginia. While she is gone, I will designate my time for a week of sermon planning and writing, similar to my annual week away, except I will daily attend to the office and pastoral duties as needed. I will miss her greatly, as we have spent much meaningful time together in the last few weeks. And, solitude is good for me, I need it from time to time to focus, plan and think. I will not indulge in watching television other than the occasional news during these days.
Guide me most Holy Lord as I journey today, that I might bear fruit for you. In my every thought, action, prayer, visit, plan and discernment let me follow your plan for my life, and live fully this day in your will.
Monday, July 18, 2011
July 18, 2011
7-18-11 Monday, 5:54 am Springfield, 74 degrees, clear
I have a day of rest stretching before me. Taking Monday as my sabbath works well in the flow of my week, and today will be a fairly typical Monday. After devotions and watching a little news I will contemplate how this day might unfold.
Romans 5
By one man’s disobedience sin entered the world. By one man’s righteousness, the gift of grace and abundant life will reign for many. Verse 21 sums it up: “that, as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
This truth is so clear and simple, and at the same time so complex and unfathomable. It is by grace that God has revealed this through scripture to those who have ears to hear. May its power and simplicity impact my living today.
Lord, today is a gift. Your spirit has revealed the power of your resurrection available to me, a sinner. Fill me today with life and love, faith and hope. May this day be eternally significant.
I have a day of rest stretching before me. Taking Monday as my sabbath works well in the flow of my week, and today will be a fairly typical Monday. After devotions and watching a little news I will contemplate how this day might unfold.
Romans 5
By one man’s disobedience sin entered the world. By one man’s righteousness, the gift of grace and abundant life will reign for many. Verse 21 sums it up: “that, as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
This truth is so clear and simple, and at the same time so complex and unfathomable. It is by grace that God has revealed this through scripture to those who have ears to hear. May its power and simplicity impact my living today.
Lord, today is a gift. Your spirit has revealed the power of your resurrection available to me, a sinner. Fill me today with life and love, faith and hope. May this day be eternally significant.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
July 17, 2011
7-17-11 Sunday, 5:08 am Springfield, 77 warm and muggy degrees, clear sky, bright moon.
The next 7 + days will be very hot. I am thankful for air conditioning and other modern conveniences that make life in this sweltering heat much easier. Last Sunday morning I was waking up in a hotel in O’Fallon, and would attend worship at Morning Star. I am so glad to be waking up here in Springfield and preparing to lead worship at Wesley. Today I begin a four-part series on the Christian Family Tree, and I consider the Roman Catholic church as The church for 1000 years. For my devotional reading of scripture I will read the scripture John Wesley used in his sermon “Catholic Spirit”
II Kings 10:15
Jehu has been slaughtering the sons of Ahab and he meets Jehonadab the son of Rechab. He asks him, “Is your heart right, as my heart is with your heart? When Jehonadab answers that it is, Jehu says “give me your hand.” In the midst of conflict and struggle, when hearts are right, strong partnerships are formed.
I just read Wesley’s sermon “Catholic Spirit”. It is #39 in his standard 53 sermons. He makes great points, does not negate the difference of opinion that earnest people have of worship style, church government, and practice of the sacraments. He discourages muddy thinking or universalism (he calls it “speculative latitudinararianism”.) I have and will continue to encourage a catholic spirit among believers. Today I hope to inspire hearers to check their foundations upon the rock of Christ, and on the shoulders of those who have come before us.
Guide me Holy Lord as I teach and preach your Word to the people of this generation. May my words be Your Words, filled with Your Power and transforming lives today.
The next 7 + days will be very hot. I am thankful for air conditioning and other modern conveniences that make life in this sweltering heat much easier. Last Sunday morning I was waking up in a hotel in O’Fallon, and would attend worship at Morning Star. I am so glad to be waking up here in Springfield and preparing to lead worship at Wesley. Today I begin a four-part series on the Christian Family Tree, and I consider the Roman Catholic church as The church for 1000 years. For my devotional reading of scripture I will read the scripture John Wesley used in his sermon “Catholic Spirit”
II Kings 10:15
Jehu has been slaughtering the sons of Ahab and he meets Jehonadab the son of Rechab. He asks him, “Is your heart right, as my heart is with your heart? When Jehonadab answers that it is, Jehu says “give me your hand.” In the midst of conflict and struggle, when hearts are right, strong partnerships are formed.
I just read Wesley’s sermon “Catholic Spirit”. It is #39 in his standard 53 sermons. He makes great points, does not negate the difference of opinion that earnest people have of worship style, church government, and practice of the sacraments. He discourages muddy thinking or universalism (he calls it “speculative latitudinararianism”.) I have and will continue to encourage a catholic spirit among believers. Today I hope to inspire hearers to check their foundations upon the rock of Christ, and on the shoulders of those who have come before us.
Guide me Holy Lord as I teach and preach your Word to the people of this generation. May my words be Your Words, filled with Your Power and transforming lives today.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
July 16, 2011
7-16-11 Saturday, 7:23 am Springfield, 75 degrees, humid, heading into a week of excessive heat and humidity.
The pastor’s golf outing yesterday was great. I played with Dennis and Doug, two SBC pastors and Tyler, youth pastor at Oak Grove AG church. I enjoyed the challenges and opportunities to swing and putt and talk and enjoy nature. For me, golf is an opportunity to recreate and interact. Now I am ready for a day of pastoral work and preparation for tomorrow. Today I will meet with a couple in preparation for their wedding, I will make several phone calls, develop my sermon manuscript, exercise, pray with the departing Honduras team at 7:30 pm, and perhaps stop by a Sunday School class party around 8.
Romans 4 (I am reading a chapter of Romans a day, and am a little ahead of the One Year Bible schedule.)
In this chapter Paul recounts the faith of Abraham and David. He logically develops the timeline that Abraham believed God before he was circumcised, and thus faith not obedience to the law is the key element. He quotes David’s writing from Psalm 32:1-2 “Blessed are those whose lawless deeds have been forgiven, and whose sins have been covered.” Paul draws on the “tradition” and the teachings that have been passed down. This is my sermon theme tomorrow, and I could well use this chapter of Romans as an example of how Paul used tradition.
It is so tempting to minimize those who have come before us, as less educated, less sophisticated, less aware of things we take for granted. The problem of discounting the work of our predecessors is the resulting haughtiness, and the danger of veering off the way by ignoring warning signs posted by fellow travelers. Guide me today and tomorrow Lord as I point hearers to the healthy use of tradition and heritage. May my thinking and living reflect a healthy balance of looking back, looking around, and looking forward as your servant during this present age.
The pastor’s golf outing yesterday was great. I played with Dennis and Doug, two SBC pastors and Tyler, youth pastor at Oak Grove AG church. I enjoyed the challenges and opportunities to swing and putt and talk and enjoy nature. For me, golf is an opportunity to recreate and interact. Now I am ready for a day of pastoral work and preparation for tomorrow. Today I will meet with a couple in preparation for their wedding, I will make several phone calls, develop my sermon manuscript, exercise, pray with the departing Honduras team at 7:30 pm, and perhaps stop by a Sunday School class party around 8.
Romans 4 (I am reading a chapter of Romans a day, and am a little ahead of the One Year Bible schedule.)
In this chapter Paul recounts the faith of Abraham and David. He logically develops the timeline that Abraham believed God before he was circumcised, and thus faith not obedience to the law is the key element. He quotes David’s writing from Psalm 32:1-2 “Blessed are those whose lawless deeds have been forgiven, and whose sins have been covered.” Paul draws on the “tradition” and the teachings that have been passed down. This is my sermon theme tomorrow, and I could well use this chapter of Romans as an example of how Paul used tradition.
It is so tempting to minimize those who have come before us, as less educated, less sophisticated, less aware of things we take for granted. The problem of discounting the work of our predecessors is the resulting haughtiness, and the danger of veering off the way by ignoring warning signs posted by fellow travelers. Guide me today and tomorrow Lord as I point hearers to the healthy use of tradition and heritage. May my thinking and living reflect a healthy balance of looking back, looking around, and looking forward as your servant during this present age.
Friday, July 15, 2011
July 15, 2011
7-15-11 Friday, 5:49 am Springfield, full moon just setting in the west, 74 degrees.
Today will be an unusual Friday. I will be playing golf with pastors from the Springfield region. I have not swung a golf club since the church golf tournament in September. (I should be eligible again for beginner’s luck!) This outing is hosted by The Wind 88.3, and each of the previous years I have had to decline the gracious offer to participate. It starts early, and I will leave at 7:00. I will miss being in the office today, but I have already proofed the bulletin.
I had an interesting dream last night. I was in the vicinity of a meeting of the district superintendents of Missouri. Twice I encountered them heading to their meeting room, and they were like zombies, walking single file and unresponsive to my greeting and attempt at interaction. There are twelve superintendents, and I know them all. I do not know what to make of this brief “dream clip”.
Romans 3
As with each chapter of Romans, there is much spiritual meat in these 31 verses. It is in this chapter that I find twice the concept that has brought much comfort to my soul over the 37 years that I have been walking with Christ. That concept is “there is none righteous, not even one” (verse 10, quoting from Psalm 14:3) In the Bible I am using this morning, in the margin near Psalm 14:3 I find a handwritten note stating “the beginning of the good news for Bruce Baxter!” As an only child growing up, I did not see other children get in trouble and developed the concept that I was uniquely corrupt. Discovering that no one is righteous on their own was very comforting for me.
Romans 3:23 “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Paul restates this truth from Psalm 14:3, and then continues in verse 24 “being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus;” In every religious system there is the tendency to gravitate towards works righteousness. Until my last breath I will emphasize “justification as a gift by His grace through redemption which is in Christ Jesus.”
Guide me most Holy Lord on the journey today. Use me, fill me, pour me out for the building up of your kingdom.
Today will be an unusual Friday. I will be playing golf with pastors from the Springfield region. I have not swung a golf club since the church golf tournament in September. (I should be eligible again for beginner’s luck!) This outing is hosted by The Wind 88.3, and each of the previous years I have had to decline the gracious offer to participate. It starts early, and I will leave at 7:00. I will miss being in the office today, but I have already proofed the bulletin.
I had an interesting dream last night. I was in the vicinity of a meeting of the district superintendents of Missouri. Twice I encountered them heading to their meeting room, and they were like zombies, walking single file and unresponsive to my greeting and attempt at interaction. There are twelve superintendents, and I know them all. I do not know what to make of this brief “dream clip”.
Romans 3
As with each chapter of Romans, there is much spiritual meat in these 31 verses. It is in this chapter that I find twice the concept that has brought much comfort to my soul over the 37 years that I have been walking with Christ. That concept is “there is none righteous, not even one” (verse 10, quoting from Psalm 14:3) In the Bible I am using this morning, in the margin near Psalm 14:3 I find a handwritten note stating “the beginning of the good news for Bruce Baxter!” As an only child growing up, I did not see other children get in trouble and developed the concept that I was uniquely corrupt. Discovering that no one is righteous on their own was very comforting for me.
Romans 3:23 “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Paul restates this truth from Psalm 14:3, and then continues in verse 24 “being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus;” In every religious system there is the tendency to gravitate towards works righteousness. Until my last breath I will emphasize “justification as a gift by His grace through redemption which is in Christ Jesus.”
Guide me most Holy Lord on the journey today. Use me, fill me, pour me out for the building up of your kingdom.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
July 14, 2011
7-14-11 Thursday, 6:04 am Springfield, 75 degrees.
Yesterday was a day full of meetings, all of them profitable and fruitful. I met with the prayer team at 9:00 am as is customary on Wednesdays and we prayed in a circle in the Gathering Area. At 10:00 I met with the executive staff and we worked on HCI items including missional job descriptions and schedules. I introduced and handed out the book The Equipping Church by Sue Mallory and described a plan for digesting it over the next 6 weeks. Audrey and I shared lunch at Arby’s, as she had a meeting at church and was working on hymn selection. At 1:00 I met with the worship planning team and worked into September, back through August and put the final details on this coming Sunday. At 3:00 I met with the pastors, and at 3:30 with the executive leadership team. At 6:30 I had dinner and a meeting with the Ozark Air flying club, outdoors at the hangar. I belong to this group in part to make friends beyond the church, which after 3 years is proving fruitful. Today my schedule is a little more flexible, with a 7:30 hospital call, a 9:00 meeting with 3 other pastors for prayer, an 11:00 meeting to plan preaching with Matt, and a 12:30 lunch with one of our pastors. It is good to be back at work, and I look forward to checking emails and writing my sermon for this weekend.
Romans 2
Verses 1-10 describe the glory, honor and peace that awaits everyone who does good, and the wrath, anger, trouble and distress for everyone who are self-seeking, reject the truth and follow evil. Upon first reading of this paragraph, it would seem that heaven is a works-righteousness system, where people are rewarded for doing good, and punished for doing wrong. As I read the totality of scripture, it is very clear to me that entrance into heaven is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ (not based on works), and that for eternity, there are rewards and punishments for humans. Thus, salvation by faith is clear in Romans, as is the truth that there are eternal consequences for decisions and actions during this brief human life.
Guide me today, Holy Lord as I seek to do good, to honor your Name, to represent your love and kindness in this world.
Yesterday was a day full of meetings, all of them profitable and fruitful. I met with the prayer team at 9:00 am as is customary on Wednesdays and we prayed in a circle in the Gathering Area. At 10:00 I met with the executive staff and we worked on HCI items including missional job descriptions and schedules. I introduced and handed out the book The Equipping Church by Sue Mallory and described a plan for digesting it over the next 6 weeks. Audrey and I shared lunch at Arby’s, as she had a meeting at church and was working on hymn selection. At 1:00 I met with the worship planning team and worked into September, back through August and put the final details on this coming Sunday. At 3:00 I met with the pastors, and at 3:30 with the executive leadership team. At 6:30 I had dinner and a meeting with the Ozark Air flying club, outdoors at the hangar. I belong to this group in part to make friends beyond the church, which after 3 years is proving fruitful. Today my schedule is a little more flexible, with a 7:30 hospital call, a 9:00 meeting with 3 other pastors for prayer, an 11:00 meeting to plan preaching with Matt, and a 12:30 lunch with one of our pastors. It is good to be back at work, and I look forward to checking emails and writing my sermon for this weekend.
Romans 2
Verses 1-10 describe the glory, honor and peace that awaits everyone who does good, and the wrath, anger, trouble and distress for everyone who are self-seeking, reject the truth and follow evil. Upon first reading of this paragraph, it would seem that heaven is a works-righteousness system, where people are rewarded for doing good, and punished for doing wrong. As I read the totality of scripture, it is very clear to me that entrance into heaven is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ (not based on works), and that for eternity, there are rewards and punishments for humans. Thus, salvation by faith is clear in Romans, as is the truth that there are eternal consequences for decisions and actions during this brief human life.
Guide me today, Holy Lord as I seek to do good, to honor your Name, to represent your love and kindness in this world.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
July 13, 2011
7-13-11 Wednesday, 5:50 am Springfield, 72 cool degrees.
It is so good to be home. During the last two days I rode the Kawasaki 700 miles through Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee and Illinois. I camped in the woods and endured the persistent heat. I have wanted to take such a trip for a long time, and Monday and Tuesday were available. I am still feeling the fatigue of the heat and the irritating chigger and tick bites. And, as always with a camping trip, I am ready to focus on the work that lies ahead. As I awoke in my tent yesterday morning, my challenges included cooking breakfast over a fire, dealing with a wasp nest while breaking down camp, and getting the motorcycle turned around in the woods. All were accomplished successfully.
I am ready to get back to the work of pastoring. We will have a staff meeting this morning, and worship planning this afternoon, followed by an executive leadership team meeting. Tonight I have dinner and a meeting of the Ozark Flying club. Tomorrow I have time to work on sermon prep, and a pastor’s golf tournament on Friday.
II Thes 2:13-16
… stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. (KJV, verse 15) The TNIV: …hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.
I am working on a sermon for Sunday which will launch a new series focusing on “Our Christian Family Tree.” It will involve considering the Roman Catholic church, the Lutheran church, the Presbyterian Church, and the Pentecostal/Charismatic church. It will also involve the study and application of the Wesleyan “quadrilateral” of scripture, tradition, reason and experience.
It is good for me to ponder the teachings and traditions that I should “hold fast.” It is such a temptation for humans to write their own, start something new and independent. Jesus supported the heart of the traditions passed down from Moses, but resisted the human additions and applications that subverted the intention (such as honoring father and mother, see Matthew 15:1-9). My main challenge for this Sunday, and for each part of this series will be to focus on the essentials, to make clear applications, and to guard against wondering all over the map. None of these four parts naturally lends itself to brevity.
Guide me oh, thou great Jehovah, as I am a pilgrim through this barren land. May my steps, my thoughts, my actions be ordered by your will and your word during each hour, each minute of this day.
It is so good to be home. During the last two days I rode the Kawasaki 700 miles through Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee and Illinois. I camped in the woods and endured the persistent heat. I have wanted to take such a trip for a long time, and Monday and Tuesday were available. I am still feeling the fatigue of the heat and the irritating chigger and tick bites. And, as always with a camping trip, I am ready to focus on the work that lies ahead. As I awoke in my tent yesterday morning, my challenges included cooking breakfast over a fire, dealing with a wasp nest while breaking down camp, and getting the motorcycle turned around in the woods. All were accomplished successfully.
I am ready to get back to the work of pastoring. We will have a staff meeting this morning, and worship planning this afternoon, followed by an executive leadership team meeting. Tonight I have dinner and a meeting of the Ozark Flying club. Tomorrow I have time to work on sermon prep, and a pastor’s golf tournament on Friday.
II Thes 2:13-16
… stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. (KJV, verse 15) The TNIV: …hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.
I am working on a sermon for Sunday which will launch a new series focusing on “Our Christian Family Tree.” It will involve considering the Roman Catholic church, the Lutheran church, the Presbyterian Church, and the Pentecostal/Charismatic church. It will also involve the study and application of the Wesleyan “quadrilateral” of scripture, tradition, reason and experience.
It is good for me to ponder the teachings and traditions that I should “hold fast.” It is such a temptation for humans to write their own, start something new and independent. Jesus supported the heart of the traditions passed down from Moses, but resisted the human additions and applications that subverted the intention (such as honoring father and mother, see Matthew 15:1-9). My main challenge for this Sunday, and for each part of this series will be to focus on the essentials, to make clear applications, and to guard against wondering all over the map. None of these four parts naturally lends itself to brevity.
Guide me oh, thou great Jehovah, as I am a pilgrim through this barren land. May my steps, my thoughts, my actions be ordered by your will and your word during each hour, each minute of this day.
Monday, July 11, 2011
July 11, 2011
7-11-11 Monday, 5:10 am Springfield, 79 degrees, clear
Within the hour I will depart on my first motorcycle camping trip. The Kawasaki is loaded with tent, sleeping bag, and minimal supplies. The weather is clear, and predicted to be very hot. I will camp in the woods in Kentucky, and return tomorrow. David and I spent 18 days in these same woods in 1999 during an equally hot July. Yesterday Audrey and I had a great day, worshipping at Morning Star in O’Fallon with David, lunching with Audrey’s mom and visiting the Casillas family at their restaurant later in the afternoon. The drive home to Springfield was pleasant and uneventful.
Psalm 9
“I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” (verse 1) A bird just began to sing loudly outside. In my heart there rings a melody… I will praise God, all day, with all my heart. This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it!
Verse 2: “I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High.”
Verse 11 continues the dual theme of this Psalm with an encouragement to “sing the praises of the Lord” and to “proclaim among the nations what he has done.” Yes Lord, I praise your Holy Name, and I will proclaim among all peoples what you have done. Guide me today in a monastic journey, alone on a motorcycle through the heated Midwest. May my lips sing your praise, and my life reflect your glory all along the way today.
Within the hour I will depart on my first motorcycle camping trip. The Kawasaki is loaded with tent, sleeping bag, and minimal supplies. The weather is clear, and predicted to be very hot. I will camp in the woods in Kentucky, and return tomorrow. David and I spent 18 days in these same woods in 1999 during an equally hot July. Yesterday Audrey and I had a great day, worshipping at Morning Star in O’Fallon with David, lunching with Audrey’s mom and visiting the Casillas family at their restaurant later in the afternoon. The drive home to Springfield was pleasant and uneventful.
Psalm 9
“I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” (verse 1) A bird just began to sing loudly outside. In my heart there rings a melody… I will praise God, all day, with all my heart. This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it!
Verse 2: “I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High.”
Verse 11 continues the dual theme of this Psalm with an encouragement to “sing the praises of the Lord” and to “proclaim among the nations what he has done.” Yes Lord, I praise your Holy Name, and I will proclaim among all peoples what you have done. Guide me today in a monastic journey, alone on a motorcycle through the heated Midwest. May my lips sing your praise, and my life reflect your glory all along the way today.
Saturday, July 9, 2011
July 9, 2011
7-9-11 Saturday, 7:14 am 71 degrees, clear and calm
Today a new nation is born – South Sudan. After years of civil war and struggle, at midnight this became officially “The Republic of South Sudan”. Around the world there are approximately 196 countries (this number is harder to determine than I originally thought). Political realities change frequently, and the official birth of a new country today is to be celebrated. The country of which I am a citizen, currently the strongest nation globally is a blessing. It has its weaknesses, and this weekend lawmakers are working overtime to address the self-imposed debt ceiling and the deficit spending that could significantly weaken our future.
Yesterday I rode my motorcycle to Joplin and toured the city. Wow, the destruction is widespread and will take years to rebuild. My reflections include the power of this storm, the unpredictability of the natural world, and the importance for each person and family to regularly reappraise priorities and trajectories to reflect what is truly significant. Betty Ford died yesterday at 93, and her direct addressing of her breast cancer and then her alcohol and drug dependence have become an inspiration for many people to deal with these difficult personal issues which only get worse if ignored. In Thursday’s blog (7-7-11) I reflected on the life and death of David Wilkerson who founded Teen Challenge (one of the best drug and alcohol rehab programs available.) I must visit one of our young members who is in jail, and who I tried to get into one of the Missouri Teen Challenge facilities.
I Chronicles 7-8
So many names! It is popular today to study one’s genealogy. Computers and the World Wide Web assist this process. The writer of I Chronicles deems it important to list so many names that it is tedious to read the lists. However, doing so reminds me of the importance of each individual in the sight of God. We are beginning to compile a new pictorial directory for Wesley United Methodist Church. The last one is three years old this fall. So many new people have joined, existing members have changed, and sadly, many have died since the publication of the last directory. Each individual is so important to God!
Guide me today most Holy Lord as I live this Saturday in your sight, doing your will, being the son, husband, father that you have called me to be.
Today a new nation is born – South Sudan. After years of civil war and struggle, at midnight this became officially “The Republic of South Sudan”. Around the world there are approximately 196 countries (this number is harder to determine than I originally thought). Political realities change frequently, and the official birth of a new country today is to be celebrated. The country of which I am a citizen, currently the strongest nation globally is a blessing. It has its weaknesses, and this weekend lawmakers are working overtime to address the self-imposed debt ceiling and the deficit spending that could significantly weaken our future.
Yesterday I rode my motorcycle to Joplin and toured the city. Wow, the destruction is widespread and will take years to rebuild. My reflections include the power of this storm, the unpredictability of the natural world, and the importance for each person and family to regularly reappraise priorities and trajectories to reflect what is truly significant. Betty Ford died yesterday at 93, and her direct addressing of her breast cancer and then her alcohol and drug dependence have become an inspiration for many people to deal with these difficult personal issues which only get worse if ignored. In Thursday’s blog (7-7-11) I reflected on the life and death of David Wilkerson who founded Teen Challenge (one of the best drug and alcohol rehab programs available.) I must visit one of our young members who is in jail, and who I tried to get into one of the Missouri Teen Challenge facilities.
I Chronicles 7-8
So many names! It is popular today to study one’s genealogy. Computers and the World Wide Web assist this process. The writer of I Chronicles deems it important to list so many names that it is tedious to read the lists. However, doing so reminds me of the importance of each individual in the sight of God. We are beginning to compile a new pictorial directory for Wesley United Methodist Church. The last one is three years old this fall. So many new people have joined, existing members have changed, and sadly, many have died since the publication of the last directory. Each individual is so important to God!
Guide me today most Holy Lord as I live this Saturday in your sight, doing your will, being the son, husband, father that you have called me to be.
Friday, July 8, 2011
July 8, 2011
7-8-11 Friday, 6:19 am Springfield, 69 degrees.
Audrey and I had a good time at Silver Dollar City yesterday, and a good meeting with a potential new team member for her January Honduras trip. Today we will be working around the house and yard, and working on errands. I will head out momentarily for a morning ride on the Concours.
I Chronicles 5-6
Geneologies and locations of the descendents of Levi. This book of Chronicles pays particular attention to the priests and their work. As I read through so many unfamiliar names, I imagined what their lives might have been like, their daily tasks, their struggles, their joys, etc. I pictured my name in a list in the future of pastors in America, and the 30+ years I served inferred in a phrase. I realize that the eternal truth is that God remembers! Each detail of every day God remembers and the investment I make in people, in the Word, in dying to self and living for Christ makes an eternal difference.
I am currently reading a biography of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and remembering the impact that his 39 short years made as he invested his life well and God used it according to God’s purposes. Guide me holy Lord as I journey forward through this day. Guide my thoughts, my actions, my reactions. Do your work of recreation as I open myself completely to your will and purposes.
Audrey and I had a good time at Silver Dollar City yesterday, and a good meeting with a potential new team member for her January Honduras trip. Today we will be working around the house and yard, and working on errands. I will head out momentarily for a morning ride on the Concours.
I Chronicles 5-6
Geneologies and locations of the descendents of Levi. This book of Chronicles pays particular attention to the priests and their work. As I read through so many unfamiliar names, I imagined what their lives might have been like, their daily tasks, their struggles, their joys, etc. I pictured my name in a list in the future of pastors in America, and the 30+ years I served inferred in a phrase. I realize that the eternal truth is that God remembers! Each detail of every day God remembers and the investment I make in people, in the Word, in dying to self and living for Christ makes an eternal difference.
I am currently reading a biography of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and remembering the impact that his 39 short years made as he invested his life well and God used it according to God’s purposes. Guide me holy Lord as I journey forward through this day. Guide my thoughts, my actions, my reactions. Do your work of recreation as I open myself completely to your will and purposes.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
July 7, 2011
7-7-11Thursday, 7:21 am Springfield 73 degrees, with 100% chance of thunderstorms and highs only in the low to mid 80s.
Last night Bethany returned to Los Angeles, arriving at LAX at 12:47 am Central Daylight time. She texted me, and I was still awake. Yesterday morning she and I launched the Folbot at Springfield Lake and paddled around for an hour. We had a great 9 weeks with her here in Springfield prompted by the surgery on her foot and the required recovery. Now she is beginning this new phase of post-college work and continued preparation for her vocation as a vocalist.
I will continue to be on vacation through the 12th. Audrey’s jury duty fizzled, as the official telephone recording informed her on Tuesday night that her section of the jury pool was no longer needed. We will go to Silver Dollar City today, and spend the next few days in R & R.
I Chronicles 4
The Introduction to Chronicles, written by Jim and Gerri Combs, is most helpful, as found in the Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible. It describes the difference between Chronicles and Samuel-Kings as “reflecting more of a providential standpoint,” emphasizing the altar, the temple, and spiritual history, probably authored by Ezra near the end of the Exile period.
As I prepared to read this chapter, I prayed that amid the genealogies, some nugget would stand out. And, alas, verses 9 and 10 contain the brief mention of Jabez, which led to the expansive writings by Bruce Wilkinson on the prayer of Jabez in verse 10, which is a wonderful prayer. “ ‘Oh that Thou wouldst bless me indeed, and enlarge my border, and that Thy hand might be with me, and that Thou wouldst keep my from harm, that it may not pain me!’ And God granted him what he requested.”(NASB)
Lord, on this summer day in Missouri, I pray that your blessing would continue to guide me, as I seek to enlarge not my border, but the work of your kingdom through my life. I covet your hand guiding me, as I serve you in these late middle age or early senior adult years of my life. I give you thanks for my two young adult children, whose childhood you blessed and whose lives are now independent of mine in a healthy way. I thank you for my wife of nearly 30 years and our partnership centered in your will and purposes. Guide me as I pray, and as I strive to follow where you lead, every day.
Having quoted Bruce Wilkerson above, I looked into David Wilkerson’s death on April 27. He died in a car crash in which the car he was driving swerved into the path of an 18 wheeler hauling logs in East Texas. His wife was with him, and she is recovering. I located his blog, and read the last couple of entries, including one the morning of April 27. He mentions death, demonic forces, and the failure even of prayer. He ends on an encouraging note to stand strong in the Lord. One writer suggests he might have swerved into the path of the truck. I have been tempted in this way since I was a teenager. I realized early on that this was a temptation of the evil one, to shorten my life and minimize my impact for the kingdom. I am thankful for the life of David Wilkerson, his teachings, his ministries, his devotion. Guide me Lord as I serve you faithfully, and as I resist all the arrows of the evil one!
Last night Bethany returned to Los Angeles, arriving at LAX at 12:47 am Central Daylight time. She texted me, and I was still awake. Yesterday morning she and I launched the Folbot at Springfield Lake and paddled around for an hour. We had a great 9 weeks with her here in Springfield prompted by the surgery on her foot and the required recovery. Now she is beginning this new phase of post-college work and continued preparation for her vocation as a vocalist.
I will continue to be on vacation through the 12th. Audrey’s jury duty fizzled, as the official telephone recording informed her on Tuesday night that her section of the jury pool was no longer needed. We will go to Silver Dollar City today, and spend the next few days in R & R.
I Chronicles 4
The Introduction to Chronicles, written by Jim and Gerri Combs, is most helpful, as found in the Tim LaHaye Prophecy Study Bible. It describes the difference between Chronicles and Samuel-Kings as “reflecting more of a providential standpoint,” emphasizing the altar, the temple, and spiritual history, probably authored by Ezra near the end of the Exile period.
As I prepared to read this chapter, I prayed that amid the genealogies, some nugget would stand out. And, alas, verses 9 and 10 contain the brief mention of Jabez, which led to the expansive writings by Bruce Wilkinson on the prayer of Jabez in verse 10, which is a wonderful prayer. “ ‘Oh that Thou wouldst bless me indeed, and enlarge my border, and that Thy hand might be with me, and that Thou wouldst keep my from harm, that it may not pain me!’ And God granted him what he requested.”(NASB)
Lord, on this summer day in Missouri, I pray that your blessing would continue to guide me, as I seek to enlarge not my border, but the work of your kingdom through my life. I covet your hand guiding me, as I serve you in these late middle age or early senior adult years of my life. I give you thanks for my two young adult children, whose childhood you blessed and whose lives are now independent of mine in a healthy way. I thank you for my wife of nearly 30 years and our partnership centered in your will and purposes. Guide me as I pray, and as I strive to follow where you lead, every day.
Having quoted Bruce Wilkerson above, I looked into David Wilkerson’s death on April 27. He died in a car crash in which the car he was driving swerved into the path of an 18 wheeler hauling logs in East Texas. His wife was with him, and she is recovering. I located his blog, and read the last couple of entries, including one the morning of April 27. He mentions death, demonic forces, and the failure even of prayer. He ends on an encouraging note to stand strong in the Lord. One writer suggests he might have swerved into the path of the truck. I have been tempted in this way since I was a teenager. I realized early on that this was a temptation of the evil one, to shorten my life and minimize my impact for the kingdom. I am thankful for the life of David Wilkerson, his teachings, his ministries, his devotion. Guide me Lord as I serve you faithfully, and as I resist all the arrows of the evil one!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
July 6, 2011
7-6-11 Wednesday, 6:10 am Springfield, 76 warm and humid degrees.
Today is Bethany’s last day here. She flies to Los Angeles tonight. This morning she and I will take the Folbot out on Springfield lake. It has been hanging in my garage since the day we moved here. My dad built it from a kit in the early 80s. Yesterday I ran 6 over the noon hour, enduring well the 95 degree temperature. I averaged 10:59 a mile, and even though I walked often, I was pleased with this effort. This morning I will fertilize the lawn and tend the garden.
Acts 24
Paul appears before Felix, having been arrested by the Jews. He makes his case, proclaims his innocence and shares Christ with him. Felix delays any decision for 2 years, keeping him under house arrest, hoping Paul would give him money. Yesterday the jury came back with a “not guilty” verdict in the trial of Casey Anthony, accused of murdering her 2 year-old daughter in 2008. Our legal system today in not perfect, but it seems to be much better than the system during Paul’s day. Even as it seems he was treated unfairly, God used this to His glory, and Paul’s life and faith continued to develop.
On this hot, summer day, guide me holy Lord in all that I do, that it may glorify You. I am yours, a child of the King, and this midsummer day in Missouri in my opportunity to live for You, filled by Your Spirit, establishing peace with joy. Amen.
Today is Bethany’s last day here. She flies to Los Angeles tonight. This morning she and I will take the Folbot out on Springfield lake. It has been hanging in my garage since the day we moved here. My dad built it from a kit in the early 80s. Yesterday I ran 6 over the noon hour, enduring well the 95 degree temperature. I averaged 10:59 a mile, and even though I walked often, I was pleased with this effort. This morning I will fertilize the lawn and tend the garden.
Acts 24
Paul appears before Felix, having been arrested by the Jews. He makes his case, proclaims his innocence and shares Christ with him. Felix delays any decision for 2 years, keeping him under house arrest, hoping Paul would give him money. Yesterday the jury came back with a “not guilty” verdict in the trial of Casey Anthony, accused of murdering her 2 year-old daughter in 2008. Our legal system today in not perfect, but it seems to be much better than the system during Paul’s day. Even as it seems he was treated unfairly, God used this to His glory, and Paul’s life and faith continued to develop.
On this hot, summer day, guide me holy Lord in all that I do, that it may glorify You. I am yours, a child of the King, and this midsummer day in Missouri in my opportunity to live for You, filled by Your Spirit, establishing peace with joy. Amen.
Monday, July 4, 2011
July 4, 2011
7-4-11 Monday, 5:33 am Springfield, 70 degrees, 90% humidity, cloudy.
On this day in history, 3 United States presidents died – Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and James Monroe. What a coincidence that these great founding fathers died on this day of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. 35 years ago today I was celebrating with my English brother Malcolm on the St. Louis riverfront as we enjoyed the “Bicentennial” watching British made Harrier fighter jets hover in front of the arch.
Last year Audrey and I left for a 10-day vacation on July 3, enjoying the fireworks under the St. Louis arch, and then heading north for an Indiana and Illinois visit with family. On Monday, July 5 I visited Wesley Seminary on the Indiana Wesleyan University campus to learn about their new 72 credit hour Master of Divinity degree. This week we will have our last few days with Bethany before she heads back to Los Angeles, and Audrey has jury duty. We will then spend a few days of R and R in a yet-to-be decided location.
Yesterday was a great day at Wesley as we welcomed the Rev. Matt Kerner, his wife Sarah and their son Josiah to the pastoral staff. He preached on II Tim 3 and encouraged all of us to have a Paul and aTimothy in our lives, and also to be especially open to coming alongside college students.
Psalm 1 (from yesterday’s One Year Bible schedule)
The person whose delight is in the law of the Lord will be fruitful, like a tree planted by streams of water. In whatever this person does, prosperity follows. It is not so with the wicked, which are like the chaff blown away by the wind. Since 1974 I have delighted in the law of the Lord, seeking God with my whole heart. This is one of my favorite Psalms, as it paints a clear picture of the difference between a person who loves God and His Word, and a person who does not. Guide me Holy Lord on this Independence Day as I depend totally on you, your word, your spirit living in me.
On this day in history, 3 United States presidents died – Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and James Monroe. What a coincidence that these great founding fathers died on this day of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. 35 years ago today I was celebrating with my English brother Malcolm on the St. Louis riverfront as we enjoyed the “Bicentennial” watching British made Harrier fighter jets hover in front of the arch.
Last year Audrey and I left for a 10-day vacation on July 3, enjoying the fireworks under the St. Louis arch, and then heading north for an Indiana and Illinois visit with family. On Monday, July 5 I visited Wesley Seminary on the Indiana Wesleyan University campus to learn about their new 72 credit hour Master of Divinity degree. This week we will have our last few days with Bethany before she heads back to Los Angeles, and Audrey has jury duty. We will then spend a few days of R and R in a yet-to-be decided location.
Yesterday was a great day at Wesley as we welcomed the Rev. Matt Kerner, his wife Sarah and their son Josiah to the pastoral staff. He preached on II Tim 3 and encouraged all of us to have a Paul and aTimothy in our lives, and also to be especially open to coming alongside college students.
Psalm 1 (from yesterday’s One Year Bible schedule)
The person whose delight is in the law of the Lord will be fruitful, like a tree planted by streams of water. In whatever this person does, prosperity follows. It is not so with the wicked, which are like the chaff blown away by the wind. Since 1974 I have delighted in the law of the Lord, seeking God with my whole heart. This is one of my favorite Psalms, as it paints a clear picture of the difference between a person who loves God and His Word, and a person who does not. Guide me Holy Lord on this Independence Day as I depend totally on you, your word, your spirit living in me.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
July 3, 2011
7-3-11 Sunday, 5:28 am Springfield, 74 degrees, clear.
It is a beautiful morning outside. The sky is just starting to reveal the predawn light of the sun, the birds are singing, the air is relatively cool. I had a good night’s sleep and I am ready for the day. I am greatly anticipating this first Sunday of Matt Kerner’s appointment to Wesley, and the message he will bring today from Paul’s words to Timothy about mentoring.
We are beginning the process of developing a new church directory. Pictures will be taken beginning in August and running through October. It was three years ago that we did the last one, and I have it by my side to review and pray through in preparation for this morning’s ministry among the people of Wesley.
2 Kings 22-23; Psalm 1:1-6
Josiah reigned for 31 years in Jerusalem, and these two chapters describe the reforms he brought to the nation. It began with the renovation of the temple which uncovered “a book”. “And it came about when the king heard the words of the book of the law, that he tore his clothes.” (verse11) The following verses describe how the king ordered the destruction and defilement of the altars, idols, and worship of false gods and pagan beliefs. This culminated in the reinstitution of the Passover, which apparently had not been celebrated since the days of the judges (23:22).
As I read this account of reform and return to the faith of Yahweh as revealed to Moses, my mind inquires into this current day, and wonders if any practices have crept into the life of the church which should be discarded, and if there are any observances that have slipped out of practice. I am looking forward to the upcoming series on our Christian Family Tree to consider some of these questions.
Guide me today Lord as one seeking to follow you in Spirit and in Truth. Guard me from any religious buildup of false practices or from neglect of any essential practice or element of obedience to your Word. May this first Sunday in July be a glorious celebration of your Holiness, your sacrifice, your grace and your promises to the people of the Way.
It is a beautiful morning outside. The sky is just starting to reveal the predawn light of the sun, the birds are singing, the air is relatively cool. I had a good night’s sleep and I am ready for the day. I am greatly anticipating this first Sunday of Matt Kerner’s appointment to Wesley, and the message he will bring today from Paul’s words to Timothy about mentoring.
We are beginning the process of developing a new church directory. Pictures will be taken beginning in August and running through October. It was three years ago that we did the last one, and I have it by my side to review and pray through in preparation for this morning’s ministry among the people of Wesley.
2 Kings 22-23; Psalm 1:1-6
Josiah reigned for 31 years in Jerusalem, and these two chapters describe the reforms he brought to the nation. It began with the renovation of the temple which uncovered “a book”. “And it came about when the king heard the words of the book of the law, that he tore his clothes.” (verse11) The following verses describe how the king ordered the destruction and defilement of the altars, idols, and worship of false gods and pagan beliefs. This culminated in the reinstitution of the Passover, which apparently had not been celebrated since the days of the judges (23:22).
As I read this account of reform and return to the faith of Yahweh as revealed to Moses, my mind inquires into this current day, and wonders if any practices have crept into the life of the church which should be discarded, and if there are any observances that have slipped out of practice. I am looking forward to the upcoming series on our Christian Family Tree to consider some of these questions.
Guide me today Lord as one seeking to follow you in Spirit and in Truth. Guard me from any religious buildup of false practices or from neglect of any essential practice or element of obedience to your Word. May this first Sunday in July be a glorious celebration of your Holiness, your sacrifice, your grace and your promises to the people of the Way.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
July 2, 2011
7-2-11 Saturday, 7:39 am Springfield, 74 degrees, clear and sunny.
Ahh, the 4th of July holiday weekend. I have the honor of officiating at a small wedding at Wesley this morning. Yesterday we had a great worship planning session, including a drop in visit from Dwight, our district superintendent to welcome our new pastor, Matt Kerner. Tomorrow Matt will preach at all four services and we will have a reception for him and his family in the gathering area.
Psalm 150 – Praise the Lord!
Let everything that breathes sing praises to the Lord. This glorious Psalm is the final one in the collection. It is pure praise. George O. Wood has written a very helpful devotional commentary on this Psalms, and he suggests that verse 1 gives the where of praise – the sanctuary and the heavens. The sanctuary on earth includes the temple in Jerusalem, the assembled congregation and the heart of the individual believer. “And praise ascends beyond earthly containment into the very sanctuary of heaven itself.” (p. 605 A Psalm in Your Heart)
Verse 2 gives the why of praise – exalt Him for His deeds and his character. Ascribe to the Lord… During my week at camp recently we worked on the psalm that encourages the believer to state the characteristics of God. Every year we should discover more reasons to be impressed with God. I am now sitting on the back deck and as I came outside my heart simply settled into a mode of praise for the wonders of God in creation – the birds, the trees, the sky, the breeze. I look forward to praising God every day of my life, exalting him for his deeds and his character.
Verse 3-5 gives us the how of praise – eight instruments are named plus dance. I desire to praise him in every way possible. Verse 6 tells us who should praise God – everything that breathes – that includes me, everyone I know, and all of creation. Jesus said that the rocks would break out into praise if others did not.
Lord, on this Saturday morning, sitting on my deck in the shade as the sun begins its (apparent) ascent, I praise your Holy Name. I know that You are Lord of heaven and earth, and that I live and move and have breath through your Spirit. Your life is my life, and I desire to allow your light to shine in the darkness that all nations may be drawn to you.
Ahh, the 4th of July holiday weekend. I have the honor of officiating at a small wedding at Wesley this morning. Yesterday we had a great worship planning session, including a drop in visit from Dwight, our district superintendent to welcome our new pastor, Matt Kerner. Tomorrow Matt will preach at all four services and we will have a reception for him and his family in the gathering area.
Psalm 150 – Praise the Lord!
Let everything that breathes sing praises to the Lord. This glorious Psalm is the final one in the collection. It is pure praise. George O. Wood has written a very helpful devotional commentary on this Psalms, and he suggests that verse 1 gives the where of praise – the sanctuary and the heavens. The sanctuary on earth includes the temple in Jerusalem, the assembled congregation and the heart of the individual believer. “And praise ascends beyond earthly containment into the very sanctuary of heaven itself.” (p. 605 A Psalm in Your Heart)
Verse 2 gives the why of praise – exalt Him for His deeds and his character. Ascribe to the Lord… During my week at camp recently we worked on the psalm that encourages the believer to state the characteristics of God. Every year we should discover more reasons to be impressed with God. I am now sitting on the back deck and as I came outside my heart simply settled into a mode of praise for the wonders of God in creation – the birds, the trees, the sky, the breeze. I look forward to praising God every day of my life, exalting him for his deeds and his character.
Verse 3-5 gives us the how of praise – eight instruments are named plus dance. I desire to praise him in every way possible. Verse 6 tells us who should praise God – everything that breathes – that includes me, everyone I know, and all of creation. Jesus said that the rocks would break out into praise if others did not.
Lord, on this Saturday morning, sitting on my deck in the shade as the sun begins its (apparent) ascent, I praise your Holy Name. I know that You are Lord of heaven and earth, and that I live and move and have breath through your Spirit. Your life is my life, and I desire to allow your light to shine in the darkness that all nations may be drawn to you.
Friday, July 1, 2011
July 1, 2011
7-1-11 Friday, 7:00 am Springfield, 74 degrees, clear and sunny
My glasses broke yesterday, with a lens falling out. I am wearing contacts this morning, which I have not done in a long time. I can see okay, but not great. This morning we will begin planning for Sunday themes in August and September. Yesterday while eating lunch with John (A.G. Dir of Prayer) I had a flash of designing a series on prayer, beginning with 9-11 and proceeding 3-5 weeks. Today will be Matt Kerner’s first day under appointment to Wesley. I am looking forward to all that he brings as associate pastor with primary responsibility for college-age and young adults.
Psalm 149
“O Israel, rejoice in your Maker. O people of Jerusalem, exult in your king. Praise his name with dancing, accompanied by tambourine and harp. For the Lord delights in his people, he crowns the humble with victory.” (verses 2-4) This morning O Lord, I rejoice in you. I exult in your kingship and praise you name in my heart and in my life. There are so many things that could distract and derail the believer's walk with you. Guard me from them, guide me as I warn others. Use me as your servant in this generation. Amen.
My glasses broke yesterday, with a lens falling out. I am wearing contacts this morning, which I have not done in a long time. I can see okay, but not great. This morning we will begin planning for Sunday themes in August and September. Yesterday while eating lunch with John (A.G. Dir of Prayer) I had a flash of designing a series on prayer, beginning with 9-11 and proceeding 3-5 weeks. Today will be Matt Kerner’s first day under appointment to Wesley. I am looking forward to all that he brings as associate pastor with primary responsibility for college-age and young adults.
Psalm 149
“O Israel, rejoice in your Maker. O people of Jerusalem, exult in your king. Praise his name with dancing, accompanied by tambourine and harp. For the Lord delights in his people, he crowns the humble with victory.” (verses 2-4) This morning O Lord, I rejoice in you. I exult in your kingship and praise you name in my heart and in my life. There are so many things that could distract and derail the believer's walk with you. Guard me from them, guide me as I warn others. Use me as your servant in this generation. Amen.
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