Category: Devotional

Wednesday evening our Song of the Soul was “Are Ye Able,” with its refrain, “Lord, we are able, our spirits are thine, remold them make us, like thee divine.  Thy guiding radiance, above us shall be, a beacon to God, to love and loyalty.”  While exploring the history of the song, we also took a look at the prayer purposely placed next to the hymn.  It’s a prayer for overcoming adversity.  We’ve reached that point in Lent when we remember Jesus’ followers were rather bold in saying, “Lord, we are able.”  Because, like us, they were prone to failure.  In other words, on our own, we aren’t able.  We need, as AA aptly puts it, a “Higher Power.”

Unfortunately, there is another thing that often comes with knowing we fail; that is feeling unworthy or unlovable.  So, last night we not only pondered the disciples falling asleep in the garden and disappearing as the cross drew near; we also pondered the post-Easter words. “Do not be afraid.”  “Fear not.”  Have you ever heard those words echo a whisper of forgiveness?    Sometimes I re-imagine Jesus showing up to his followers after they/we fail.  “Don’t be afraid, I haven’t abandoned you.” “Don’t be afraid, I have forgiven you.”  “Don’t be afraid, today is a new day and I will help you do what you cannot do on your own.”

Lent reminds us of our deep need.  Easter reminds us God in Christ wants to help us to overcome what we can not overcome on our own.  With God’s helps and strength we are able.  Let that promise be your strength.  Pray each day that God might give you the opportunity to whisper that beautiful truth into another’s life.

If you wish to encourage another on life’s journey, invite someone you know who could use a blessing to worship this Sunday.  The message of God’s life transforming love will fill the sanctuary in song and word.  Grace choir has been hard at work practicing a Cantata that shares the hope and beauty of God’s promises.

Blessings, Pastor Roger

It seems we’ve happened upon a theme at Grace.  Last night at Lenten worship we explored the history of “Come as You Are.”  You can take a listen at

This next Wednesday we’ll explore the backstory of “I Come to the Garden Alone.”  This Sunday the Gospel of Luke will also lead us to a garden that is part of a parable Jesus’ tells.  Jesus speaks of a garden that is no longer producing.  It’s a garden that the owner is ready to tear up.  But, the gardener is a hope-filled, give-it-another-chance person.  Sometimes it’s not easy to “come to the garden alone, while the dew is still on the roses” because we don’t feel worthy.  That’s especially true after we wrong someone or embarrass ourselves.  Sometimes it’s not easy to believe we can actually “Come as We Are” into God’s presence because we know we haven’t been our best selves.  But, the God who created the quintessential garden of Eden and the garden-planet we call earth, is a hope-filled, give-people-another-chance God.

In the parable Jesus shares from Luke 13:1-9, we glimpse the possibility of receiving second-chances ourselves; in fact, I think the parable invites us to share God’s hopefulness by offering second chances to others.  We are called to create the place where people can be set free of their past and grow to bear fruits of the spirit again.  We have this great opportunity.  We can pray to have the attitude of the one-more-chance gardener–and become part of God’s hopes taking root in people’s lives.

Be sure to take a moment to click on the link above to listen to “Come as You Are” by Crowder.

Have a Blessed Week, Pastor Roger

Ash Wednesday we reflected a bit on the history of “Just as I Am.” (The backstories of all the Songs of the Soul for Lent will be compiled and available for those who want them at the end of Lent). As I was reading about the recent tornadoes in the Southern US the lyrics of “Just as I Am” spoke to me.  

Eastern Alabama – Western Georgia Tornadoes

Facts:

  At least 23 dead

At least 800 people homeless…not as in their homes were damaged…

as in they came home to their homes completely gone

Deceased range from age 6 to age 89

Quotes:

“She was the air in my lungs,” father of a 10 year old girl who died.

“Heaven got the sweetest little boy.” “I love you, A.J., for making me smile when I was with you,” mom of a son who died.

“He was my wedding gift. He’d send me flowers at work just to let me know he loved me,” wife of deceased husband.

“She loved dancing. Believe it or not she was dancing on her ultrasound.”

“She was loved by many and she loved in return,” parent of an 8 year old.

“In three days we won’t be the headline of the news cycle. Please don’t forget us—in three days, in three weeks, in three months. It will take years for many of the survivors to have a home again,” First Baptist Pastor

Truth:  

We are vulnerable, fragile, creatures on this sometimes harsh and unpredictable planet. Add in, diseases, poverty, cruelty of other humans and accidents, and its clear life, at times, is tenuous and has more than its share of grief. 

“Just as I am without one plea, but that thy blood was shed for me, and that thou bidst me, come to thee. O lamb of God, I come; I come;”  

Just as I am was written for comfort and assurance in the brokenness that occurs in our world. Please keep those who are recovering from life’s worst in your prayers this Lent. Remember, when you face trials, God always, always cares and calls you to come rest in that care. Also, know that the 4th Sunday of March is UMCOR Sunday for all UM Churches. Through the United Methodist Committee on Relief you are already part of God’s care in the aftermath of the recent Tornadoes. Supplies and caring UMs were on their way within 48 hours of the devastation–with clean up supplies and listening ears–to hear, heal, and help in the rebuilding of lives over the months to come.  

For a modern intrepretation of Just as I Am check out Nicole Nordman’s version.

Lenten Blessings, Pastor Roger  

I recently saw a picture with some feisty words on it. “When I give you my time, I am giving you a portion of my life I will never get back. So don’t make me regret it.” They are not exactly words of kindness, I suspect they are words born of frustration and disappointment; they are likely meant to be a bit humorous. But, they have their sting. Probably, we have all given our time (and sometimes more) only to feel unappreciated or taken advantage of. Sometimes we are stung and we want to sting back. It is natural.

Truth is, sometimes we have to say, “no” for our own health. Yet, as we take care of ourselves, Jesus has these words, “Love your enemies, do good and lend expecting nothing in return. Be compassionate as God is. Don’t judge and you’ll avoid being judged. Don’t condemn and you won’t be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven. Give, and one day it will be given to you, a good portion…overflowing. The portion you give will determine the portion you receive” (Luke 6:35-38).

As near as I can tell, Jesus is making it clear that generosity is always noticed by God–even if others don’t seem to appreciate it.  Some days we may not have it in us to go the second mile. Occasionally, we may be exhausted and need to generously give ourselves permission to say “No.” But, we don’t need to judge others to take care of ourselves. We don’t need a grudge to take care of ourselves. And, we don’t need to let having been taken advantage of keep us from having a generous spirit.

Imagine a picture with these words: “When I give you my time, I am giving you a portion of my life I will never get back–and that’s OK. When I don’t share my time, I’m not judging you. Sometimes, I need time to recharge.” It sounds a bit more grace-filled than “Don’t make me regret it!” It sounds a lot like Jesus’ challenge to love our neighbors as ourselves.

What are other ways you and I might live more grace-filled lives. This Sunday we’ll linger with Luke 6:27-38 during worship to explore other ways Jesus Invites Us to Grow in Grace.

God’s Peace, Pastor Roger

The Dakota’s Methodist Foundation posted the image above with wise words, “Stop looking at yourself negatively for what you’re not; start loving yourself for everything you already are.” It’s an invitation to see the world and ourselves differently. It’s an invitation to focus on the blessings and set aside the limitations.  

In Luke 6:20-21 Jesus says, 

Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled.

Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.  

Jesus words invite his followers to see the world differently. He invites us to understand that God sees and acts in the world differently than we might imagine. It’s like Jesus is saying, “even when we may not feel like things are going well, or that things will ever be OK again, trust God is at work bringing blessings into our lives.”  

A few translations use the word “happy” instead of “blessed.” They pick up on the fact that we can sometimes choose how we respond to life. It’s a good point. However, I believe “blessed” is a better word, because it focuses on what God is up to in the world. Blessings are bestowed; that truth is especially important when all the positive-thinking in the world fails. Blessings can be received even in the midst of grief; that is crucial when the tears flow and happy feelings are out of reach. More importantly, you or I can not give anyone happiness. But, we can all share blessings with others.

If Jesus’ words find you in any way poor, hungry or sad, know God notices and will bring blessing into your life. You are not forgotten by the God who made you, loves you and hopes you will remember to love yourself.  

If Jesus’ words find you watching someone in the midst of struggle, wishing you could bring happiness, or change the situation in someone’s life, be reassured you can offer the reminder God is a caring and blessing God. You are made in God’s image–your style of being you is just what God needs to speak a blessing to someone. Pray God will show you the person you need to bless.

God’s Peace, Pastor Roger

Wednesday, before the winter storm and blizzard started in earnest, I went to put on my winter boots only to discover one had split in several places the last time I blew snow. I guess they didn’t like going out in -30. I searched for my gorilla tape. No luck. I thought about using CA glue, then paused after opening the bottle. “What if…?” I wondered. There’s a Bible passage where some fishermen are having terrible luck. But, Jesus, suggested to them that they go out further to drop their nets. They might have said, “No.” Instead, they responded, “What if…he is right?” Their nets were filled to overflowing. 

One of my childhood lessons was “never steady a BB gun by resting the barrel on an electric fence.” All was well, until I completed the circuit by touching my finger to the metal trigger. My elbow kicked like a mule and my brain has never forgotten.

All of us have our moments–and if we survive we become cautious. For some people cautiousness kicks in when they near a church. A bad experience with church or even no experience with church is enough to lead a those who is seek a connection with God to be cautious when it comes to church. As congregations our job is to build inviting paths rather than set up electric fences. Truth is, we’re usually really good at opening the gate for those who feel comfortable within a church. But, the some of the simplest things can jolt those new to church.

Familiar words to us can be jolting to others. “Narthex, Fellowship Hall, Chancel Area” are church-words that can leave a non-churched person feeling out of place. My theology professor and adviser in seminary warned, “those who get As in theology often don’t do well as pastors.” He reminded us everyday theology words like Heilsgeschicte and Eschatology can be barriers even for people steeped in the life of the church. He challenged us to know what such words meant so well that we would not have to use them. He pushed us to find ways of paraphrasing even their English translations: “Salvation History” and “the Ultimate Destiny of the Soul(s) of Humanity.”

Our February focus at Grace Church is “Jesus’ Invitations to Us.” It turns out Jesus’ invitations to us are often invitations to be more inviting. How do we live life so we’re not the jolting electric fence but the beautiful gateway to a life-giving relationship with God? Each week we’ll take at a part of the arts of welcome and invitation. The Bible tells of God speaking to a boy named Jeremiah. “God touched his mouth and said, ‘I am putting my words in your mouth. This day I appoint you…to dig up and pull down, to destroy and demolish, to build and plant.'” (Jeremiah 1:9-10) I think those words mean God sent Jeremiah to dig up and pull down barriers that keep people from knowing God; I think God called Jeremiah and still calls to church to build andplant the foundations for bridges and paths that lead people into meaningful relationships with the God who made us and loves us.

How will you and I speak inviting, bridge-building words today?  

Blessings, Pastor Roger

 As I read this upcoming Sunday’s gospel from Luke 4:14-21 many stories went through my mind.  In it Jesus talks about the Spirit of the Lord being upon him to “preach good news,” “proclaim freedom,” “offer liberty” and more.  One of the stories I remembered was a drummer I knew.  Buck was a gifted drummer and had spent part of his life drumming for bands.  But, band life isn’t always conducive to family life.  So, Buck changed gears–but he still drummed on occasion, sometimes at the church I was serving.  Buck also collected drums and he came up with an idea during his time working with special Olympics.  Drumming could be therapeutic and life-giving.  So, he applied for a small grant for drums, sticks and space rental.  He received the grant and began offering an opportunity for young people with special needs–a drumming group.  It started as you’d expect, dozen plus special needs individuals with drums and sticks and minds of their own.  Pandemonium is what I imagine.  But, God worked through Buck’s natural gift of patience, a humble ego with nothing to prove, and love for people exactly as they were.  The result: over a dozen individuals with wonderful smiles on their faces, a newfound ability to work in concert together, making music on the drums.  Every time I saw them perform it touched my heart.  They were proud; they were in time; they were a band; they found they had something they could share that blessed others.