“Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth. Serve the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful singing. Know that the Lord Himself is God; it is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture.” (Psalm 100, verses 1-3) These verses have spoken strongly to me over the decades. I am so thankful for these instructions to “come before Him…” to “know that the Lord Himself is God” and that He “has made us, not we ourselves”. Watching the Olympics last night, one of the American swimmers kept saying “o my god.” This seemed so irreverent to my ears, as she was not praising God, nor attributing to Him the greatness due His Name. I must endeavor to always remind myself of God’s greatness, and never slip into the trap of thinking that I am equal or greater than the Creator.
Verse 9 – “…He is coming to judge the earth; He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity.” As the tensions heat up in the middle east, with Israel, Syria, Iran, the Palestinians, I can imagine how the end could come swiftly to humanity as we know it. It is comforting and challenging to know that God will judge the world with righteousness.
Today, most Holy Lord, I will serve You with gladness, I will remember that I am part of Your people, a sheep of Your pasture. Guide my steps, my thoughts, my words, my actions, my plans, my voice that I may praise You in everything. I live today anticipating your righteous judgement.
This afternoon I will learn if my Droid Razor Max has recovered from its experience in the rain as I have a shop performing their water recovery treatment. I have put back into service my original Droid X, and it is doing okay, though I really miss the 4G features of the new one.
Monday, July 30, 2012
Sunday, July 29, 2012
July 29, 2012
This day is a gift from God! I am looking forward to each aspect of worship and reconnecting with the congregation of Wesley. The month of July has been a good change of pace and I am ready for all that lies ahead. Yesterday I had a couple of great visits, I spoke with three of our pastors, caught up on regular mail, email and phone messages, and worked in my home study, installing a new printer (needed since 2009!)
Romans 6
This is a most noteworthy chapter of scripture. I memorized it in my early 20s, and its content speaks strongly to me today. It is essentially a chapter that reminds the believer that we have been baptized into Christ’s death, and “certainly we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection.” (Verse 5) “Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body that you should obey its lusts, and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God.” (Verses 12-13)
I am conscious of the daily warfare against sin. It would be way too easy to read this chapter thinking that it is good material to preach, and to be noting the other people to which it applies. This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice, walk by faith, reject sin and present myself to God as one alive from the dead, and my members, the various parts of my body, as instruments of righteousness to God!
Lead me Lord, lead me in your righteousness today.
Romans 6
This is a most noteworthy chapter of scripture. I memorized it in my early 20s, and its content speaks strongly to me today. It is essentially a chapter that reminds the believer that we have been baptized into Christ’s death, and “certainly we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection.” (Verse 5) “Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body that you should obey its lusts, and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God.” (Verses 12-13)
I am conscious of the daily warfare against sin. It would be way too easy to read this chapter thinking that it is good material to preach, and to be noting the other people to which it applies. This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice, walk by faith, reject sin and present myself to God as one alive from the dead, and my members, the various parts of my body, as instruments of righteousness to God!
Lead me Lord, lead me in your righteousness today.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
July 24, 2012
Ahhh, we have three delightful days stretching before us, with a great room at a great hotel, on a great beach! We arrived about 2:30 and the wait for the room was very pleasant, as we watched a storm develop and chatted with new friends Charlie and Marla, United Methodists from here in St. Petersburg. We walked the beach, went for dinner, then sat on this back porch and watched the sunset as we read. We watched most of Forest Gump before lights out.
I am reading Seeing Gray in a World of Black and White by Adam Hamilton. Last night I read his essay about creation and evolution, and I agree with his position. I will address this topic on the second Sunday of August. Yesterday Russell went and got us three books by the famous eye surgeon James P Gills, which also deal with Darwinism and creation. Today I will work hard on the spring 2013 series on basic training, looking at Wesley, Luther and Bonhoeffer.
II Corinthians 5 (from the Upper Room)
What a great chapter! I am daily refreshed as I simply open the Upper Room, and whatever verse is referred to I read the whole chapter, and am constantly surprised and blessed by the eternal truth, the instruction, the encouragement, the faith building words contained therein.
Yesterday I read Colossians 3 and was reminded to set my mind, my affections on things above, which I pondered and implemented all day long. Today this theme is somewhat continued as the first verse of this chapter states: “For we know that if the earthly tent which is our house is torn down, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.” What a great reminder that this 182 pounds of flesh and blood is but a temporary dwelling, a “tent” that will not exist forever, and that there is a building from God, eternal that I will occupy in heaven. Last week David and I were attempting to preserve the “house built with hands” that my father and I built in 1974, a 12’ x 16’ oak cabin. Our conclusion was that the cabin was too far deteriorated to preserve, and we will tear it down. This makes me a little sad because it was handmade and reminds me of my dad. But it is temporal, and just as his body no longer contains his soul, when I tear that cabin down it will be a vivid reminder to me that this earth is not my permanent home, and this body will not last forever.
Verse 10 reminds me “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.” Daily I must remember this truth that there is an eternal reward for deeds, actions, care and love expressed in this limited life. Verses 17-18 is the clear expression of the transforming power of the gospel – “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation, the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation”
This is the day that You have made, most holy Lord. I am your new creation, dwelling in this tent for a while. Guide my steps, my thoughts, my words, my writing, my thinking, my corresponding that this day may have eternal implications. Amen.
I am reading Seeing Gray in a World of Black and White by Adam Hamilton. Last night I read his essay about creation and evolution, and I agree with his position. I will address this topic on the second Sunday of August. Yesterday Russell went and got us three books by the famous eye surgeon James P Gills, which also deal with Darwinism and creation. Today I will work hard on the spring 2013 series on basic training, looking at Wesley, Luther and Bonhoeffer.
II Corinthians 5 (from the Upper Room)
What a great chapter! I am daily refreshed as I simply open the Upper Room, and whatever verse is referred to I read the whole chapter, and am constantly surprised and blessed by the eternal truth, the instruction, the encouragement, the faith building words contained therein.
Yesterday I read Colossians 3 and was reminded to set my mind, my affections on things above, which I pondered and implemented all day long. Today this theme is somewhat continued as the first verse of this chapter states: “For we know that if the earthly tent which is our house is torn down, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.” What a great reminder that this 182 pounds of flesh and blood is but a temporary dwelling, a “tent” that will not exist forever, and that there is a building from God, eternal that I will occupy in heaven. Last week David and I were attempting to preserve the “house built with hands” that my father and I built in 1974, a 12’ x 16’ oak cabin. Our conclusion was that the cabin was too far deteriorated to preserve, and we will tear it down. This makes me a little sad because it was handmade and reminds me of my dad. But it is temporal, and just as his body no longer contains his soul, when I tear that cabin down it will be a vivid reminder to me that this earth is not my permanent home, and this body will not last forever.
Verse 10 reminds me “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.” Daily I must remember this truth that there is an eternal reward for deeds, actions, care and love expressed in this limited life. Verses 17-18 is the clear expression of the transforming power of the gospel – “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation, the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation”
This is the day that You have made, most holy Lord. I am your new creation, dwelling in this tent for a while. Guide my steps, my thoughts, my words, my writing, my thinking, my corresponding that this day may have eternal implications. Amen.
Monday, July 23, 2012
July 23, 2012
I am up earlier today than recently. I pushed the button on the coffee maker, and have my first cup. We will pack up and say goodbye this morning, I will run 4 miles at first light. (This will be the 4th day in a row!) My Saturday 5 mile run was really hard, leaving me wondering if my body has a message, or if it simply is the heat and humidity taking its toll.
Colossians 3 (Suggested by today’s Upper Room)
“Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set you mind on the things above, not on the things that are on the earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” (Verses 1-3) Last night before bed I was reading Luther’s famous Preface to Romans, and I marked this sentence: “Thus ‘the flesh’ is a man who lives and works, inwardly and outwardly, in the service of the flesh’s profit and of this temporal life; ‘the spirit’ is the man who lives and works, inwardly and outwardly, in the service of the Spirit and the future life.” One of the critical steps of discipleship is for the follower of Jesus to set one’s mind, to set one’s affections on spiritual things, on eternal aspects, even as daily life is lived on earth.
So I am drinking coffee which I enjoy. It is earthly, temporal, physical. However, my mind is set on following Jesus today; living this day to please God, conscious that my every breath is a gift from Him, and my steps on this planet can lead me closer to holiness or lead me away from God into a life of pleasing “the flesh” and sinning against my Creator. I recognize the battleground of the mind. Jesus clearly stated that sin originates within, in one’s thought life, and then is conceived in one’s actions. These verses in Paul’s letter to the Colossians remind me this morning to “keep seeking the things above” and then promise me that “When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory.”
I will be writing during these next four days. Last night as I drifted off (or this morning as I was waking up) I had a broad stroke image of organizing the spring 2013 series “Spring Training” (Basic discipleship with coaches Wesley, Luther and Bonhoeffer). I will also be working on my upcoming sermon series “Masterpiece” springing from the Eph 2 verse “you are His workmanship (Poema)” and involving three of the classic oil masterpieces – The Last Supper, Creation from the ceiling of the Sistine chapel, and The Return of the Prodigal.
Guide my steps today, Lord, may they be ordered by You. Through Your Spirit let me set my mind on the things above, and not on things of this earth (boats, motorcycles, airplanes etc). This is the day which You have made; I will rejoice and be glad in it!
Colossians 3 (Suggested by today’s Upper Room)
“Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set you mind on the things above, not on the things that are on the earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” (Verses 1-3) Last night before bed I was reading Luther’s famous Preface to Romans, and I marked this sentence: “Thus ‘the flesh’ is a man who lives and works, inwardly and outwardly, in the service of the flesh’s profit and of this temporal life; ‘the spirit’ is the man who lives and works, inwardly and outwardly, in the service of the Spirit and the future life.” One of the critical steps of discipleship is for the follower of Jesus to set one’s mind, to set one’s affections on spiritual things, on eternal aspects, even as daily life is lived on earth.
So I am drinking coffee which I enjoy. It is earthly, temporal, physical. However, my mind is set on following Jesus today; living this day to please God, conscious that my every breath is a gift from Him, and my steps on this planet can lead me closer to holiness or lead me away from God into a life of pleasing “the flesh” and sinning against my Creator. I recognize the battleground of the mind. Jesus clearly stated that sin originates within, in one’s thought life, and then is conceived in one’s actions. These verses in Paul’s letter to the Colossians remind me this morning to “keep seeking the things above” and then promise me that “When Christ, who is our life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory.”
I will be writing during these next four days. Last night as I drifted off (or this morning as I was waking up) I had a broad stroke image of organizing the spring 2013 series “Spring Training” (Basic discipleship with coaches Wesley, Luther and Bonhoeffer). I will also be working on my upcoming sermon series “Masterpiece” springing from the Eph 2 verse “you are His workmanship (Poema)” and involving three of the classic oil masterpieces – The Last Supper, Creation from the ceiling of the Sistine chapel, and The Return of the Prodigal.
Guide my steps today, Lord, may they be ordered by You. Through Your Spirit let me set my mind on the things above, and not on things of this earth (boats, motorcycles, airplanes etc). This is the day which You have made; I will rejoice and be glad in it!
Saturday, July 21, 2012
July 21, 2012
Bishop Schnase will be returning to Missouri for another 4 years! I just learned this via a text message from Jerry, whose wife Bev is a delegate at the Jurisdictional conference. I am very pleased at this decision by the Episcopal committee, which will allow the momentum and direction of the Missouri Conference of United Methodist churches and pastors to continue. Bob Farr, from Missouri, did not get elected bishop, but there is a sense that the Northwest Texas – New Mexico Annual conference would like him to be their bishop, after the issues with Bishop Bledsoe are settled.
Philippians 4 (from The Upper Room)
This is a great chapter from one of my favorite books of the Bible.
“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stay true to the Lord. … Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again – rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done.” (Verse 1, 4-6)
Joy is a characteristic of this epistle. Paul wrote this from a prison cell, encouraging joy in his readers. This morning our host Russ said it is a good day, because he woke up – a joyfilled approach to living. Yesterday I visited my childhood friend Dave who has a bad heart, and who lives with joy and anticipation of heaven, maybe pretty soon. Today I will cultivate joy in all that I do. I will go for a 5 mile run, and then this afternoon we will go to a county park which is an ocean beach. Tomorrow we will attend Grace church, where Russ was the principal of their private school, and associate pastor. I will call my seminary roommate Tom to see about visiting him in the next couple of days.
Thank you Lord for the gift of this day. I will not worry about anything, but I will pray about everything. I thank you for meeting all my needs, and I thank You for all You have done. I will name my blessings, and count them one by one. Guide the church; bless Pastor Mi Hyeon as she prepares to preach tomorrow. This is the day that You have made, I will rejoice and be glad in it!
Philippians 4 (from The Upper Room)
This is a great chapter from one of my favorite books of the Bible.
“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stay true to the Lord. … Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again – rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done.” (Verse 1, 4-6)
Joy is a characteristic of this epistle. Paul wrote this from a prison cell, encouraging joy in his readers. This morning our host Russ said it is a good day, because he woke up – a joyfilled approach to living. Yesterday I visited my childhood friend Dave who has a bad heart, and who lives with joy and anticipation of heaven, maybe pretty soon. Today I will cultivate joy in all that I do. I will go for a 5 mile run, and then this afternoon we will go to a county park which is an ocean beach. Tomorrow we will attend Grace church, where Russ was the principal of their private school, and associate pastor. I will call my seminary roommate Tom to see about visiting him in the next couple of days.
Thank you Lord for the gift of this day. I will not worry about anything, but I will pray about everything. I thank you for meeting all my needs, and I thank You for all You have done. I will name my blessings, and count them one by one. Guide the church; bless Pastor Mi Hyeon as she prepares to preach tomorrow. This is the day that You have made, I will rejoice and be glad in it!
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
July 17, 2012
30 years ago today I went for a walk in Cincinnati Ohio with Audrey Holmgren and asked her to marry me. She said yes! It is a joy to remember the thoughts, feelings, and emotions of that day, and to reflect on all the good that has come to us during these 30 years.
Psalm 51
The context of this Psalm written by David was when Nathan the prophet came to him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba. It is “A contrite sinner’s prayer for pardon.” As I read it this morning, it is easy for my mind to travel to the people I know who should be praying this prayer. I recognize this drift is unhealthy, but common, and I correct the course of my thinking by refocusing on applying this scripture to Bruce Baxter. This morning verse 15 speaks to me: “O Lord, open my lips, that my mouth may declare Thy praise.” This sentence is used in the Walk to Emmaus liturgy, as it has also been used in worship down through the ages. Today, July 17 I will open my lips and declare praise of God, my creator, redeemer, and sustainer. The God who has numbered my days has given me the gift of today, and the celebration of 30 years from the day I became betrothed to His servant Audrey.
Verse 17 reminds me that “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.” It is so easy for humans to harden our hearts, to crust over, to puff up. Today I must cultivate a contrite heart, developing along the way what this means for me, today.
I am your servant, most Holy Lord. I yield this day to your praise and glory, and I give you thanks for all the ways you have led my steps, anticipating your goodness in the steps yet ahead. My heart is yours, most Holy Lord.
Psalm 51
The context of this Psalm written by David was when Nathan the prophet came to him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba. It is “A contrite sinner’s prayer for pardon.” As I read it this morning, it is easy for my mind to travel to the people I know who should be praying this prayer. I recognize this drift is unhealthy, but common, and I correct the course of my thinking by refocusing on applying this scripture to Bruce Baxter. This morning verse 15 speaks to me: “O Lord, open my lips, that my mouth may declare Thy praise.” This sentence is used in the Walk to Emmaus liturgy, as it has also been used in worship down through the ages. Today, July 17 I will open my lips and declare praise of God, my creator, redeemer, and sustainer. The God who has numbered my days has given me the gift of today, and the celebration of 30 years from the day I became betrothed to His servant Audrey.
Verse 17 reminds me that “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.” It is so easy for humans to harden our hearts, to crust over, to puff up. Today I must cultivate a contrite heart, developing along the way what this means for me, today.
I am your servant, most Holy Lord. I yield this day to your praise and glory, and I give you thanks for all the ways you have led my steps, anticipating your goodness in the steps yet ahead. My heart is yours, most Holy Lord.
Monday, July 16, 2012
July 16, 2012
Oh, where do I start? I have been away from journaling and blogging for several days now, as I have been camping in Kentucky with David. We had a good time, even though our plans were constantly shifting. We arrived in the dark on Thursday night, pitching our tents in the headlights of the Explorer. The field had been neatly mowed which was a tremendous blessing. We got up Friday morning and started on the cabin, first by clearing the immense overgrowth of saplings and weeds. I got into some serious poison ivy. Upon getting all the growth cut down, we opened the cabin and discovered there were no inhabitants. (I was expecting wasps, hornet, mammals or maybe even a raccoon.) As we analyzed the condition of the cabin, it became apparent that there is significant structural decay. In addition (or because of) the roof deterioration, the floor is soft in several spots. Two of the concrete piers which support the floor joists are tilting, and some of the floor joists are sagging. In the early afternoon we made the decision to abandon work on rehabbing the cabin, and that we would return the building materials to Murray.
The next two days of camping went very well, as the weather threatened rain and periodic showers fell. David and I had a good time as we shared memories of the various times we have camped on this property which is now called "Baxter Pines".
The drive yesterday to O’Fallon and then to Springfield was long. I arrived home last night after 11 pm. The trailer still needs to be unloaded, the gear cleaned, dried and put away, etc.
Matthew 19
Verse 30 describes the upside nature of the kingdom of God: “But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then.” This chapter includes teaching on marriage and divorce, the blessing of children and their example for followers of Christ, and the question from the rich man of what he should do to have eternal life. This chapter is a key building block in the teaching of Jesus. Each of the three parts speaks to me this morning. First, on marriage: tomorrow is the 30th anniversary of my asking Audrey to marry me. Our marriage is such a blessing to me. Second, concerning the Kingdom of God which “belongs to those who are like these children” (Verse 14) I am reminded this morning of being always childlike in my faith and life before God. Finally, the rich man’s question reminds me that no earthly riches are permanent, and it is in following Christ, obeying him day by day with radical obedience that really matters for eternity.
Guide me today, most precious Lord as I work around the house, and walk humbly before you. Help me to remember the poor and to cultivate a childlike faith today.
The next two days of camping went very well, as the weather threatened rain and periodic showers fell. David and I had a good time as we shared memories of the various times we have camped on this property which is now called "Baxter Pines".
The drive yesterday to O’Fallon and then to Springfield was long. I arrived home last night after 11 pm. The trailer still needs to be unloaded, the gear cleaned, dried and put away, etc.
Matthew 19
Verse 30 describes the upside nature of the kingdom of God: “But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then.” This chapter includes teaching on marriage and divorce, the blessing of children and their example for followers of Christ, and the question from the rich man of what he should do to have eternal life. This chapter is a key building block in the teaching of Jesus. Each of the three parts speaks to me this morning. First, on marriage: tomorrow is the 30th anniversary of my asking Audrey to marry me. Our marriage is such a blessing to me. Second, concerning the Kingdom of God which “belongs to those who are like these children” (Verse 14) I am reminded this morning of being always childlike in my faith and life before God. Finally, the rich man’s question reminds me that no earthly riches are permanent, and it is in following Christ, obeying him day by day with radical obedience that really matters for eternity.
Guide me today, most precious Lord as I work around the house, and walk humbly before you. Help me to remember the poor and to cultivate a childlike faith today.
Thursday, July 12, 2012
July 12, 2012
“Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord; and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He will do it.” (Psalm 37, Verses 3-5) These beautiful verses speak to my heart this morning. I am preparing to replace the roof on a small cabin built by my father (with limited help from me) in 1974. In August of 1974 I experienced justifying grace, and my walk with Christ is the same age as this cabin. Though the cabin has been neglected, my walk with Christ has been kept fresh each day. New shingles for the cabin in about 1994 would have been helpful, but we did not do so. David and I have 2 ½ days to pull off the old rotting plywood and install the new 3/8” plywood, tar paper and brown shingles that I purchased at Lowe’s yesterday, and are loaded on my trailer.
This cabin has many memories for me, especially what I called the “Kentucky Bible Conference” of about 1977. My friend Greg and I planned to spend three days, including New Years day at this cabin, but his parents pulled the plug on his participation. I went alone, and had a great time of solitude and study, examining thoroughly 2 Peter 1:5-11. This morning’s passage from Psalm 37 reminds me that I have trusted in the Lord, I have been doing good, dwelling in the land (where I have been appointed) and I have been cultivating faithfulness. I do delight myself in the Lord, and have committed my way to Him.
Yesterday I was picking blackberries and marveling at their plump, abundant fruitfulness. I planted them 2+ years ago from 4 stalks Rochelle gave me from her patch. I have watered, mulched, battled Japanese beetles, pruned, and carefully wrapped the growing plants on the wires stretched between the poles I installed. Now they are bearing fruit, lots of it. It is work to pick them in the heat of July. I had the image of my life being like these plants, and this is the season of fruitfulness after 30 years of preparation for pastoring in this generation.
Guide me today Lord as I venture to Kentucky and extend the useful life of this cabin, sharing with my son in this light construction project. Today I will delight in you, trust You and commit my way to You as I have for 38 years.
This cabin has many memories for me, especially what I called the “Kentucky Bible Conference” of about 1977. My friend Greg and I planned to spend three days, including New Years day at this cabin, but his parents pulled the plug on his participation. I went alone, and had a great time of solitude and study, examining thoroughly 2 Peter 1:5-11. This morning’s passage from Psalm 37 reminds me that I have trusted in the Lord, I have been doing good, dwelling in the land (where I have been appointed) and I have been cultivating faithfulness. I do delight myself in the Lord, and have committed my way to Him.
Yesterday I was picking blackberries and marveling at their plump, abundant fruitfulness. I planted them 2+ years ago from 4 stalks Rochelle gave me from her patch. I have watered, mulched, battled Japanese beetles, pruned, and carefully wrapped the growing plants on the wires stretched between the poles I installed. Now they are bearing fruit, lots of it. It is work to pick them in the heat of July. I had the image of my life being like these plants, and this is the season of fruitfulness after 30 years of preparation for pastoring in this generation.
Guide me today Lord as I venture to Kentucky and extend the useful life of this cabin, sharing with my son in this light construction project. Today I will delight in you, trust You and commit my way to You as I have for 38 years.
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
July 11, 2012
Yesterday I was at the office by 7, and caught up on email, etc. I stained 2/3 of our deck, stained the trim around the garage door, and began rearranging my library and study. I had a book avalanche when a shelf gave way in the basement. Today I will be at church again by 7:30 as I pick up the trailer from out back, get my hair cut at 8, finish staining the deck, mow the lawn, purchase materials at Lowes for the cabin roof, load supplies and camping gear, purchase food and then finish out the evening at the Ozark flying club’s quarterly meeting. Yesterday and today is “hands on” work here around the house. Tomorrow will be travel, and then Friday – Sunday will be “hands on” work on reroofing the cabin and cutting firewood. My brain works from different areas as it plans and executes this work. It is a good break from what I normally am working on.
Isaiah 41 (from today’s Upper Room)
On July 22, 1986 I dated verse 10 in this Bible I am using this morning. I was 30 years old, Audrey and I had been married 3 ½ years, I had been pastoring Shiloh and Defiance for 3 years, and David was 18 months old. Today I am 56, Audrey and I have been married 29 ½ years, David is 27 ½ years old, married for 3 years, and Bethany is 23 and spending 6 weeks in France! This verse is as powerful to me today as it was then.
“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
Yes Lord, I trust that You are with me. I am not anxious, for You are my God. You have strengthened me, You have helped me, and I know that surely You will uphold me with Your righteous right hand. I have seen Your blessings down through the decades, and am living in your presence today, thankful for all that You have done and provided for me. Guide me steps today as I trust you, and look ahead for the future.
Isaiah 41 (from today’s Upper Room)
On July 22, 1986 I dated verse 10 in this Bible I am using this morning. I was 30 years old, Audrey and I had been married 3 ½ years, I had been pastoring Shiloh and Defiance for 3 years, and David was 18 months old. Today I am 56, Audrey and I have been married 29 ½ years, David is 27 ½ years old, married for 3 years, and Bethany is 23 and spending 6 weeks in France! This verse is as powerful to me today as it was then.
“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
Yes Lord, I trust that You are with me. I am not anxious, for You are my God. You have strengthened me, You have helped me, and I know that surely You will uphold me with Your righteous right hand. I have seen Your blessings down through the decades, and am living in your presence today, thankful for all that You have done and provided for me. Guide me steps today as I trust you, and look ahead for the future.
Monday, July 9, 2012
July 9, 2012
John and I completed our motorcycle trip last night at 10:40 pm, praying and saying good-bye at Wesley, right where we had started the trip. Six days, over 2300 miles and lots of adventure - the trip was all we hoped it could be. Today will be a day for unpacking, cleaning up, and getting ready for the next trip, which will be three days and nights with David camping in Kentucky. It is good to go on an adventure, and it is so good to be back home, with the comforts and familiarity of these surroundings. I almost don’t know where to start! Scripture is always a great place!
Colossians 4 (from today’s Upper Room)
In this concluding chapter of the letter written by Paul to the believers in Colossae he gives practical admonitions for Christian living. Masters are to be just and equal with servants. Believers are to continue in prayer, watching with thanksgiving. Christ’s followers are to “walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time” (verse 5). His instructions to this 7 year-old church planted by Epaphras and Timothy also are so very pertinent to churches and believers today: “Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man” (verse 6, KJV).
Paul commends to this congregation their founding pastor Epaphras, adding that he is “always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.” (Verse 12) It is good for pastors to pray in this fashion for their congregations.
Guide me today on this unusual day of recovery, relief, and preparation. My heart is grateful for the adventure and the experiences of the last 6 days. I am Your servant, living Your will today and every day.
Colossians 4 (from today’s Upper Room)
In this concluding chapter of the letter written by Paul to the believers in Colossae he gives practical admonitions for Christian living. Masters are to be just and equal with servants. Believers are to continue in prayer, watching with thanksgiving. Christ’s followers are to “walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time” (verse 5). His instructions to this 7 year-old church planted by Epaphras and Timothy also are so very pertinent to churches and believers today: “Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man” (verse 6, KJV).
Paul commends to this congregation their founding pastor Epaphras, adding that he is “always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.” (Verse 12) It is good for pastors to pray in this fashion for their congregations.
Guide me today on this unusual day of recovery, relief, and preparation. My heart is grateful for the adventure and the experiences of the last 6 days. I am Your servant, living Your will today and every day.
Saturday, July 7, 2012
July 7, 2012
Ouray Colorado is a great place to wake up on a Saturday! Yesterday John and I rode 200 miles through some of the most beautiful mountains we have seen. We donned our rain gear as we were in and out of showers. Today we will head north through Gunnison and on to Pueblo as our route turns back east and toward home. Given the mechanical trouble we had with the Harley, we have extended our trip by one day, planning now to be home on Sunday night.
I John 1 (from the Upper Room)
This first chapter from John's first letter reminds me of the reality of the Gospel, as John reports as an eye witness the things he has seen and touched and heard concerning Jesus Christ.
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
July 3, 2012
This morning I will climb on the Kawasaki for a five-day motorcycle ride into the mountains of Colorado! I am looking forward to the adventure and the experiences of being on the road. Last year I traveled for 4 days on a similar ride. I felt the pressure all along the way of needing to be back by Wednesday at 6:30 to teach a Bible study at Wesley. This trip has no commitments on the backside, which leaves me very flexible. I will be riding with John, who will be on his Harley. We have never ridden together, even around town, but we have travelled to and from Honduras for a week. We will be a good team.
I Sam 16 (from the Upper Room Devotional)
In this chapter Samuel anoints young David to be the future king of Israel. God tells Samuel to go to Jesse of Bethlehem. “I have chosen one of his sons to be king.” (Verse 1) Upon seeing the first son Eliab Samuel thought he had identified the one. “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘do not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (Verse 7) This truth resounds through the ages, to pay attention to the things of God, and to be careful not to be caught up in appearances and popular views. I will meditate on this as I ride today.
“So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came upon David in power.” (Verse 13) The rest of the chapter describes David being enlisted by Saul as an armor-bearer, and also as a musician to play when the troubling spirit disturbs Saul. I am reminded of the critical importance of the anointing by God for service.
Guide me today, and on this trip, most Holy God. Help me to see as you see, and to be anointed by your Spirit as I travel. Guide Bethany today as she travels by herself from Los Angeles to New York, and then on to France. We are yours; use us according to your will.
I Sam 16 (from the Upper Room Devotional)
In this chapter Samuel anoints young David to be the future king of Israel. God tells Samuel to go to Jesse of Bethlehem. “I have chosen one of his sons to be king.” (Verse 1) Upon seeing the first son Eliab Samuel thought he had identified the one. “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘do not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (Verse 7) This truth resounds through the ages, to pay attention to the things of God, and to be careful not to be caught up in appearances and popular views. I will meditate on this as I ride today.
“So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came upon David in power.” (Verse 13) The rest of the chapter describes David being enlisted by Saul as an armor-bearer, and also as a musician to play when the troubling spirit disturbs Saul. I am reminded of the critical importance of the anointing by God for service.
Guide me today, and on this trip, most Holy God. Help me to see as you see, and to be anointed by your Spirit as I travel. Guide Bethany today as she travels by herself from Los Angeles to New York, and then on to France. We are yours; use us according to your will.
Monday, July 2, 2012
July 2, 2012
This is one of those wonderful mornings in which I wake up at 4 am ready to launch into the day. I am so glad I did not plan to leave today on the trip to Colorado! There is much to do, and I will make a list elsewhere. After scripture I plan to fire up the Concours just to experience the early morning on the bike, and to see how my new running lights light up the road.
Proverbs 4 (Upper Room for today)
“Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth.” (Verse 6) This chapter is essentially an exhortation to seek wisdom and understanding. “Exalt her, and she shall promote thee; she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her. She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace; a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee. Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many.” (Verses 8-10) I am reading from my Thompson KJV Bible given to me by my parents on Christmas, 1975. Inscribed in the front in my mother’s hand: “May this bible assist you in the continuing search for truth, and may the grace and love of the Lord be with you forever. With our love to you, Dad and Mom”
As I read this chapter I am reminded of my yearning for wisdom and understanding from the summer of 1974 onward. During my 4 years of college, my 2 years of being a YUPPY (young urban professional – CPA) my 3 years of seminary, and now my almost 30 years of being a pastor – I have sought to know and embody God’s wisdom. In her separate journey, and now in our 30 year journey together, Audrey has sought God’s wisdom in all her life. Together we desire to live and follow God, and we continue to experience what is promised – our steps are straightened, and we have not stumbled (verse 12).
Living a life of faith is a daily exercise of obedience, discernment, judgment and faith. Today is no different from July 2, 1975, except that I am further along in the journey, and have the perspective of 56 years. Guide me today, most Holy Lord as I “get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not.” I commit this day to You and the advancement of your kingdom!”
Proverbs 4 (Upper Room for today)
“Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth.” (Verse 6) This chapter is essentially an exhortation to seek wisdom and understanding. “Exalt her, and she shall promote thee; she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her. She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace; a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee. Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many.” (Verses 8-10) I am reading from my Thompson KJV Bible given to me by my parents on Christmas, 1975. Inscribed in the front in my mother’s hand: “May this bible assist you in the continuing search for truth, and may the grace and love of the Lord be with you forever. With our love to you, Dad and Mom”
As I read this chapter I am reminded of my yearning for wisdom and understanding from the summer of 1974 onward. During my 4 years of college, my 2 years of being a YUPPY (young urban professional – CPA) my 3 years of seminary, and now my almost 30 years of being a pastor – I have sought to know and embody God’s wisdom. In her separate journey, and now in our 30 year journey together, Audrey has sought God’s wisdom in all her life. Together we desire to live and follow God, and we continue to experience what is promised – our steps are straightened, and we have not stumbled (verse 12).
Living a life of faith is a daily exercise of obedience, discernment, judgment and faith. Today is no different from July 2, 1975, except that I am further along in the journey, and have the perspective of 56 years. Guide me today, most Holy Lord as I “get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not.” I commit this day to You and the advancement of your kingdom!”
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