10-31-11 Monday, 7:30 am Springfield, 34 degrees.
Ruth Madoff and her son Andrew are being interviewed on the news about the pain and loss caused by the 65 billion dollar ponzi scheme perpetrated by Bernie Madoff which was discovered in December, 2008. What a tragedy all around, with the suicide last year of one of the sons, and the 1000s of victims who lost their life savings. As the economy tanked in 2008, Madoff’s clients who had invested with him because of his excellent rate of return, learned that there was no investment, it was all an illusion and they were left with nothing. I imagine that this has caused many investors to wonder if their retirement accounts are real or imaginary. It also raises the issue of this world and the next, what is really valuable and what will disappear when the son of God is revealed.
Hebrews 1-2
Hebrews is one of my favorite books of the Bible. I studied it in depth in seminary, and still draw upon that work. I look forward to reading it a chapter a day for the next couple of weeks. In chapter one the author states that God, who long ago spoke to the fathers in the prophets has spoken in these last days to us in His Son. “He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power” (verse 3). This stirs within me the desire to worship God with praise and thanksgiving for sending His son and revealing Him to us.
“We must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it.” (2:1) Yesterday in my sermon I mentioned the possibility of drift, and how easy it is to lose the reference point on a shoreline. I proposed that the cross is the best possible reference point for the life of a believer. Also in chapter 2 the writer compares Jesus to angels, and states the unique role he fulfilled as he was tempted and suffered as do the children of flesh and blood.
Thank you Lord for revealing to your servants truths about Your kingdom. Guide me on this beautiful autumn day as I live in this world but not of it, pushing my body in a long run and communing with you as friend to friend. Draw me nearer precious Lord.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
October 28, 2011
10-28-11 Friday, 7:08 am Springfield, 33 degrees
What a finish to game 6 last night! David Freese, who dropped a routine popup early in the game, tied the game with a 2-run hit in the bottom of the ninth with a 2-out, 2-strike count, and then won the game with a solo home run in the bottom of the eleventh. For a team that was 10 ½ games out of the wild card spot in late August, this is an incredible story. I am inspired to always press on no matter how hopeless the circumstances.
Titus 3
Paul summarizes the essence of the gospel message in verses 3-7:
“At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.”
This should be underlined in every Bible, and memorized by every Christ-follower. Yesterday I had the privilege of talking with two individuals about the new life they are experiencing. From opposite ends of life, one in his eighties, the other a young mother, they shared about the goodness of God filling their lives through the ministries of Wesley. I am thankful that God is at work in and through this faith community.
Today I have the morning dedicated to sermon writing, and I am looking forward to the hours of discerning the details of this fifth message on the “Beyond Normal” way in which Christ-centered people live. Guide me today most Holy Lord, as one who has experienced the washing of rebirth and renewal by your Holy Spirit, poured out generously through Jesus Christ my Savior.
What a finish to game 6 last night! David Freese, who dropped a routine popup early in the game, tied the game with a 2-run hit in the bottom of the ninth with a 2-out, 2-strike count, and then won the game with a solo home run in the bottom of the eleventh. For a team that was 10 ½ games out of the wild card spot in late August, this is an incredible story. I am inspired to always press on no matter how hopeless the circumstances.
Titus 3
Paul summarizes the essence of the gospel message in verses 3-7:
“At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.”
This should be underlined in every Bible, and memorized by every Christ-follower. Yesterday I had the privilege of talking with two individuals about the new life they are experiencing. From opposite ends of life, one in his eighties, the other a young mother, they shared about the goodness of God filling their lives through the ministries of Wesley. I am thankful that God is at work in and through this faith community.
Today I have the morning dedicated to sermon writing, and I am looking forward to the hours of discerning the details of this fifth message on the “Beyond Normal” way in which Christ-centered people live. Guide me today most Holy Lord, as one who has experienced the washing of rebirth and renewal by your Holy Spirit, poured out generously through Jesus Christ my Savior.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
October 27, 2011
10-27-11 Thursday, 8:19 am Village Inn, Springfield, 44 degrees, cloudy
I just had a delightful breakfast and conversation with a former member of Wesley who now lives in Kansas City. It was good to catch up and share the fellowship of Christ-centered lives. We are both empty nesters with many things in common. This morning I arose at 5:30 (it took two bouts with the alarm to rouse me!)
Titus 2
In this chapter Paul instructs a pastor, Titus, on how to teach older men, older women, younger me. Paul also tells Titus to “in everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us” (verses 7-8). Paul concludes this chapter by telling Titus to “encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you” (15).
Guide me today Lord in all the opportunities I have to meet and pray and counsel and teach. Use my example to encourage many in doing what is good. Pour out your spirit and empower me in Springfield to be your undershepherd.
I just had a delightful breakfast and conversation with a former member of Wesley who now lives in Kansas City. It was good to catch up and share the fellowship of Christ-centered lives. We are both empty nesters with many things in common. This morning I arose at 5:30 (it took two bouts with the alarm to rouse me!)
Titus 2
In this chapter Paul instructs a pastor, Titus, on how to teach older men, older women, younger me. Paul also tells Titus to “in everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us” (verses 7-8). Paul concludes this chapter by telling Titus to “encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you” (15).
Guide me today Lord in all the opportunities I have to meet and pray and counsel and teach. Use my example to encourage many in doing what is good. Pour out your spirit and empower me in Springfield to be your undershepherd.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
October 26, 2011
10-26-11 Wednesday, 4:52 am Springfield, 68 warm degrees.
I have been doing some online banking, and am looking forward to this day. Having awakened at 3:50, and knowing I did not get adequate sleep, I will push through and see how my level of energy flows today. I am tentatively planning to attend the 9:00 pm college worship at St. Paul’s tonight. Tomorrow I begin the day with an early breakfast and end it with staff-parish meeting. Yesterday was a good day of writing, planning, meeting, and catching up. I regret that I was unable to attend our life
group last night due to the press of unfinished business.
I am reading a biography of Jefferson Davis by William Cooper Jr. Reading it a few pages each night since late August has taken my thoughts to the 1840s in Mississippi, Texas, and Mexico. I have learned of the political tensions of that era, the dreams and sorrows of young Jefferson Davis, and though I am only 157 pages into this 800 page work, I have benefited much. Biography is my favorite form of literature, and has been since I was in elementary school.
Titus 1
The apostle Paul wrote this letter to Titus, who like Timothy, was a younger protégé and was appointed by Paul to care for a segment of the church. Paul left Titus on the island of Crete, and told him to appoint elders in every city. Paul describes the characteristics of good elders: “above reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe and are not accused of being wild or disobedient. Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless – not overbearing or self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather, he should be hospitable, loving what is good, self-controlled, upright, sensible, and disciplined”. (Verses 6-8 qouted from both the NASB and TNIV)
I serve as a member of the annual conference ordained ministry committee, and chair of the district ordained ministry committee, and we are charged with the process of credentialing folks who are in the process of becoming pastors in the United Methodist Church. It is a daunting process, and these instructions from Paul are the gold standard for character and conduct. John Wesley had a lot to say about the selection of pastors, and their supervision.
In verses 10-16 Paul identifies negative characteristics found in the culture of Crete, and also in the young church. Paul instructs Titus to silence those who are “rebellious men, empty talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision group” (verse 10) Church discipline is always a difficult endeavor, and overseers (leaders) of the body of Christ have a weighty responsibility. Guide me today Lord as I serve You as lead pastor of Wesley United Methodist Church, developing more disciples of You who worship, care and serve.
I have been doing some online banking, and am looking forward to this day. Having awakened at 3:50, and knowing I did not get adequate sleep, I will push through and see how my level of energy flows today. I am tentatively planning to attend the 9:00 pm college worship at St. Paul’s tonight. Tomorrow I begin the day with an early breakfast and end it with staff-parish meeting. Yesterday was a good day of writing, planning, meeting, and catching up. I regret that I was unable to attend our life
group last night due to the press of unfinished business.
I am reading a biography of Jefferson Davis by William Cooper Jr. Reading it a few pages each night since late August has taken my thoughts to the 1840s in Mississippi, Texas, and Mexico. I have learned of the political tensions of that era, the dreams and sorrows of young Jefferson Davis, and though I am only 157 pages into this 800 page work, I have benefited much. Biography is my favorite form of literature, and has been since I was in elementary school.
Titus 1
The apostle Paul wrote this letter to Titus, who like Timothy, was a younger protégé and was appointed by Paul to care for a segment of the church. Paul left Titus on the island of Crete, and told him to appoint elders in every city. Paul describes the characteristics of good elders: “above reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe and are not accused of being wild or disobedient. Since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless – not overbearing or self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather, he should be hospitable, loving what is good, self-controlled, upright, sensible, and disciplined”. (Verses 6-8 qouted from both the NASB and TNIV)
I serve as a member of the annual conference ordained ministry committee, and chair of the district ordained ministry committee, and we are charged with the process of credentialing folks who are in the process of becoming pastors in the United Methodist Church. It is a daunting process, and these instructions from Paul are the gold standard for character and conduct. John Wesley had a lot to say about the selection of pastors, and their supervision.
In verses 10-16 Paul identifies negative characteristics found in the culture of Crete, and also in the young church. Paul instructs Titus to silence those who are “rebellious men, empty talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision group” (verse 10) Church discipline is always a difficult endeavor, and overseers (leaders) of the body of Christ have a weighty responsibility. Guide me today Lord as I serve You as lead pastor of Wesley United Methodist Church, developing more disciples of You who worship, care and serve.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
October 25, 2011
10-25-11 Tuesday, 9:00 am Church Office
I am thankful that we are part of the United Methodist connection. In this system the local churches are connected to districts led by district superintendents. (Our district is the Ozarks South district and our superintendent is Dwight Chapman.) In Missouri, the districts are connected to the regional body called the annual conference. The leader of our annual conference is Bishop Robert Schnase. I received a letter from him this past week from which I would like to share a portion with you:
“The Missouri Conference Extended Cabinet hold each day a congregation, its pastor(s) and leaders in prayer. The day of October 30 will be a special day for me in that I will be in prayer for …(pastors and people of Wesley UMC in Springfield. I will also be praying for the people of your Mozambique covenant partner church, Vilanculos Central, and their pastor, Antonio Xavier Nhanombe. I know God is able to hear and answer prayer. I pray that new vitality and grace will be with you on this day and in the days to come. There may be those in your parish who would join us on this day in praying for the faithfulness and witness of these congregations. May God continue to fill you with abundant joy. Yours in Christ, Robert Schnase.
Let us all pray on this coming Sunday, October 30 for Wesley and for Vilanculos Central, as our bishop and all the superintendents and conference directors pray. On November 10 at 7:00 our superintendent Dwight Chapman will lead our Church Conference in the sanctuary at 7:00, conducting the annual business of the church. All are invited to attend.
I am thankful that we are part of the United Methodist connection. In this system the local churches are connected to districts led by district superintendents. (Our district is the Ozarks South district and our superintendent is Dwight Chapman.) In Missouri, the districts are connected to the regional body called the annual conference. The leader of our annual conference is Bishop Robert Schnase. I received a letter from him this past week from which I would like to share a portion with you:
“The Missouri Conference Extended Cabinet hold each day a congregation, its pastor(s) and leaders in prayer. The day of October 30 will be a special day for me in that I will be in prayer for …(pastors and people of Wesley UMC in Springfield. I will also be praying for the people of your Mozambique covenant partner church, Vilanculos Central, and their pastor, Antonio Xavier Nhanombe. I know God is able to hear and answer prayer. I pray that new vitality and grace will be with you on this day and in the days to come. There may be those in your parish who would join us on this day in praying for the faithfulness and witness of these congregations. May God continue to fill you with abundant joy. Yours in Christ, Robert Schnase.
Let us all pray on this coming Sunday, October 30 for Wesley and for Vilanculos Central, as our bishop and all the superintendents and conference directors pray. On November 10 at 7:00 our superintendent Dwight Chapman will lead our Church Conference in the sanctuary at 7:00, conducting the annual business of the church. All are invited to attend.
Monday, October 24, 2011
October 24, 2011
10-24-11 Monday, 4:55 am Springfield, 50 degrees, clear
This is the last week of trout season. I did not set an alarm, and determined as I went to bed that if I naturally woke up early, I might go down to Roaring River and bag some trout for dinner. I will read scriptures, watch some news, and then gather the equipment needed for fishing. Perhaps I will be on my way by 6:00 am. This afternoon I will take a pastor flying over Springfield. Yesterday was a very good day of worship and celebration at Wesley.
II Timothy 2:22 – 3:17
The practical advice in this letter is a gift to leaders in the church. In verses 24-26 Paul teaches: “And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.” Across the world, throughout all denominations and expressions of the body of Christ - if leaders were kind to everyone, able to teach and not resentful the kingdom of God would benefit greatly.
In chapter 3 Paul describes what will transpire “in the last days”: People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God – having a form of godliness but denying it power.” (Verses 2-5a) This description applies to this present age, and even as we are 2000 years removed from its writing, it is incredibly accurate. Rather than give instructions on how to minister to these people, Paul says “Have nothing to do with such people” (verse 5). I suggest that he is describing people within the faith community, not people who are spiritually asleep. His last phrase “having a form of godliness but denying its power” tips us off that these are “religious” people.
What is the hope of the world? Jesus Christ – crucified, buried, raised from the dead and seated at the right hand of the Father! I am glad that we are not left to human nature to make the world a better place. Guide me Holy Lord today as I live for you, shaped by your Word, led by your Spirit. Teach me and use me as your servant.
This is the last week of trout season. I did not set an alarm, and determined as I went to bed that if I naturally woke up early, I might go down to Roaring River and bag some trout for dinner. I will read scriptures, watch some news, and then gather the equipment needed for fishing. Perhaps I will be on my way by 6:00 am. This afternoon I will take a pastor flying over Springfield. Yesterday was a very good day of worship and celebration at Wesley.
II Timothy 2:22 – 3:17
The practical advice in this letter is a gift to leaders in the church. In verses 24-26 Paul teaches: “And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.” Across the world, throughout all denominations and expressions of the body of Christ - if leaders were kind to everyone, able to teach and not resentful the kingdom of God would benefit greatly.
In chapter 3 Paul describes what will transpire “in the last days”: People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God – having a form of godliness but denying it power.” (Verses 2-5a) This description applies to this present age, and even as we are 2000 years removed from its writing, it is incredibly accurate. Rather than give instructions on how to minister to these people, Paul says “Have nothing to do with such people” (verse 5). I suggest that he is describing people within the faith community, not people who are spiritually asleep. His last phrase “having a form of godliness but denying its power” tips us off that these are “religious” people.
What is the hope of the world? Jesus Christ – crucified, buried, raised from the dead and seated at the right hand of the Father! I am glad that we are not left to human nature to make the world a better place. Guide me Holy Lord today as I live for you, shaped by your Word, led by your Spirit. Teach me and use me as your servant.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
October 23, 2011
10-23-11 Sunday, 5:47 am Springfield, 51 degrees, clear.
Yesterday I started with a 7:15 am meeting about finances, attended the United Methodist Men’s monthly breakfast meeting with a great program on car safety by Bruno Schmidt, met with a Sunday School class for brunch, exercised, performed a wedding, and made several phone calls along with finalizing my sermon. At the end of the day there were still phone calls I could have made, and a short writing project left unfinished. Today I am looking forward to preaching on the topic of money.
Matthew 6 - Jesus teaches about prayer, fasting, and money
As the middle chapter of three containing the “Sermon on the Mount”, this chapter has practical advice and pointed criticism for the religious leaders of Jesus’ day. I will speak from this chapter this morning. Guide my thoughts, words, and actions today, most holy Lord as I seek first Your kingdom and Your righteousness. Amen.
Yesterday I started with a 7:15 am meeting about finances, attended the United Methodist Men’s monthly breakfast meeting with a great program on car safety by Bruno Schmidt, met with a Sunday School class for brunch, exercised, performed a wedding, and made several phone calls along with finalizing my sermon. At the end of the day there were still phone calls I could have made, and a short writing project left unfinished. Today I am looking forward to preaching on the topic of money.
Matthew 6 - Jesus teaches about prayer, fasting, and money
As the middle chapter of three containing the “Sermon on the Mount”, this chapter has practical advice and pointed criticism for the religious leaders of Jesus’ day. I will speak from this chapter this morning. Guide my thoughts, words, and actions today, most holy Lord as I seek first Your kingdom and Your righteousness. Amen.
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