November 30th People Reflection

Wednesday 11/30/2005

Galatians 4.21-31-you were born because of this promise

Lamentations 3-4-God took careful aim and shot his arrows straight through my heart.

Psalm 146-With all that I am, I will shout his praises.

John 1.35-42-Rabbi, where are you staying?

Matthew 10.29-31-do not be afraid, you are of more value…

Psalm 8-what are human beings that you are mindful of them

"You can come by to talk anytime."- Some guys at work after a conversation- and invitation to talk and to listen to each other- God was talking to Abraham about a child that would be born- a promise- Abraham was wondering if this was really going to happen- I wonder if at times Abraham thought God had shot an arrow through his heart- wounding him- Abraham was old – how could a child be born to him/- god must be playing some cruel trick- yet God wasn’t- through this child of promise I am given entry into the chosen family of God- through faith I have become a child of God- just as Abraham and his child through faith started that family long ago- through faith Sarah became the mother of God’s chosen people of faith- Sarah’s faith – Abraham’s faith- my faith in a promise fulfilled by and through Jesus- Jesus where are you staying?- why have you chosen to accept me?- why have you given me a promise and given me faith?- not sure- I have the same question the psalmist has- what are human beings that you are mindful of them?- but I guess all that matters is that God is mindful of human beings and came to save all of us through faith in Jesus – what Jesus did for us- and with that – with all that I am- I will shout praises to God- because I know for sure that God has more value for me than I can even begin to imagine- "You can come by to talk anytime." – I know- and you value me and I love you- anytime and all time.

Prayer- Rabbi, where are you staying?- I would like to talk to you. -- Amen

November 29th People Reflection

Tuesday 11/29/2005

Galatians 3.21-4.20-But when the time was right, God sent his Son…

Lamentations 1-2-Pour out your feelings to the Lord

Psalm 145-you are much greater than anyone can understand

Romans 10.10-18-Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved

Isaiah 9.2-7-The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light

Psalm 43-O send your light and your truth; let them lead me…

"I’m in Knoxville now."- Sarah on a long journey back to school- flight delays and canceled – going in circles in the south- and that’s how I am- in life sometimes- going in circles- but I must have the trust and hope that at the right time God sends his Son- to lead and guide me and save me- in the meantime I will pour out my feelings to God- good and bad- maybe even with an attitude- I will call on him for help and look and listen – look for the light and listen for his voice- God is much more than I can ever understand and it works out much differently than I can ever figure- "I’m in Knoxville now."- But I know I will make it back- for now it’s an adventure to enjoy.

Prayer- Lord, protect me in the life of adventure and lead and guide me all the way. -- Amen

November 28th People Reflection

Monday 11/28/2005

Galatians 3.1-20-The Law isn’t based on faith, It promises life only to people who obey its commands. But Christ rescued us for the Law’s curse, when he became a curse in our place.

Jeremiah 51-52-My people, I am on your side…

Psalm 144-You are my friend, and you are my fortress where I am safe.

Ezekiel 3.16-21-Mortal, I have made you a sentinel…

Matthew 25.1-13-and those who were ready went with him…

Psalm 32-steadfast love surrounds those who trust in the LORD

"I don’t have any power to the radio."- Bryan working on a radio and asking for my help. The power comes in the faith- the power does not come in the law- the law only points to our need for the power- the law alone is a curse- but with the power of Jesus salvation – Jesus took the place of the curse for me- God is on my side- he is present to save me- to keep me safe and to be my friend- even to descend into hell for me and with me- and through Jesus God has made me a sentinel- he has prepared me and made me ready- and in his steadfast love – God sends me to love others and to be with them – to descend into hell with them and show them his grace- his salvation- his love- his power. – "I don’t have any power to the radio."- The power is in Jesus grace.

Prayer- Lord, fill me with your power this day and send me. -- Amen

November 27th People Reflection

Sunday 11/27/2005

Galatians 2-I have died, but Christ lives in me. And I now live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave his life for me.

Jeremiah 49-50-shout so all the nations can hear

Psalm 143-Each morning let me learn more about your love because I trust you. I come to you in prayer, asking for your guidance.

Mark 13.24-37Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in clouds’ with great power and glory

Hebrews 13.7-16-Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

Psalm 136.1-9, 23-26-O give thanks to the God of heaven

"Why is 6 afraid of 7? Because 7 8 9." Jake telling a joke last night on the way out to eat. .Maybe I am 7 and Christ is 9- Before I may have been 6 – but then I died and became 7- now I live by faith in 9 who loved me and gave his life for me—and this is something to be shouted for all the nations to hear!- Praise 9! – Each morning I can learn more and more about the love of 9 – each morning I can ask 9 to lead and guide me in life- and 9 will – because 9 is always with me- I am in 9 and 9 is in me- 9 stays the same throughout all time- yesterday- today and forever- and some day 9 will fulfill the Kingdom and return in glory in the clouds—I guess that would be cloud 9 – and I will now and always give thanks to 9 the God of heaven.—"Why is 6 afraid of 7? Because 7 8 9." Thanks be to God!

Prayer- I give thanks to the God of heaven! 9—make some 6’s into 7’s this day.-- Amen

November 26th People Reflection

Saturday 11/26/2005

Galatians 1-He was kind and decided to show me his Son

Jeremiah 47-48-Yet someday, I will bring your people back home.

Psalm 142-I pray to you, LORD, I beg for mercy.

1 Corinthians 1.3-9-God is faithful; by him you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

Revelation 12.10-12-Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Messiah

Psalm 40-I delight to do your will

"I think you have it backwards."- I was putting the window back in our bedroom and had the bottom backwards. An error pointed out that made all the difference in the world. Now it fits just fine. I think God has noticed my errors and was kind enough to show me his Son. One without error. A man sent to save me from my sin and errors. I can’t save myself. I am lost in my sin. Yet God sent his Son that someday he will lead me back home to God. That’s where God wants me. With him. In relationship with him. In the meantime I beg for his mercy. I beg for his mercy for my errors. And God has responded and called me into fellowship with Jesus. All life long a fellowship with Jesus. Jesus the man sent to be with me in life. Jesus with me all the way. And because of this I delight in doing his will. I know that God’s salvation has come and will be fulfilled on that final day with the authority of Jesus. "I think you have it backwards." Yea-I do- but I thank God for sending his Son to show me my errors and to correct me.

Prayer- Lord forgive me when I have it backwards- show me your way. -- Amen

November 25th People Reflection

Friday 11/25/2005

2 Peter 3-But first we must realize that in the last days some people won’t think about anything except their won selfish desires.

Jeremiah 45-46-don’t be afraid

Psalm 141-think of my prayers as sweet-smelling incense.

Isaiah 64.1-9-O that you would tear open the heavens and come down

Matthew 11.28-30-for I am gentle and humble in heart

Psalm 4-You have put gladness in my heart

"That battery is dead."- Bryan trying to get a van started that has been out of commission for a long long time- a van donated –with a wheelchair lift but in need of repair- a van that Bryan has put countless hours of work into- no selfish desires here- it is work to help another person gain a little freedom in travel- work put into a van with a dead battery-I think sometimes God does a lot of work on me too-and then when he tries to start me up- my battery is dead- he has to replace my battery or charge it up- I can imagine his frustration with me- but I also am thankful that he doesn’t give up on me- he sent his Son to take the deadness of my heart – to replace it with his own heart and to give me life- I must come to life in his name- serve him on the roads of life that he places me- be glad with the new battery and heart which he has graciously given me- yea- a God that comes down just when I need him and gives himself to me- I will give myself in joyous response to God – may my offering be sweet smelling to my Lord and Savior- and may I have no fear on any of the roads God places me—"The battery is dead."—But thanks be to God for Jesus who will give me a new battery and the spark of life.

Prayer- Lord charge me today- fill me with your life that I may serve you in your kingdom. -- Amen

November 24th People Reflection

Thursday 11/24/2005

2 Peter 2-A dog will come back to lick up its own vomit.

Jeremiah 43-44-I told the people everything the LORD had told me.

Psalm 140-Rescue me from cruel and violent enemies, LORD!

Luke 17.11-19-Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice.

Deuteronomy 26.1-11-A wandering Aramean was my ancestor

Psalm 106-And let all the people say, "Amen." Praise the LORD!

"What did you think of the snow?"—We had the first snow of any sorts yesterday. It was the talk of many people. It was even the first snow that my puppy Phoebe has experienced. Sometimes I wonder what people think of God- sometimes I wonder what I think of God—especially in those times that I turn from God- those times I choose to attempt to do it all by myself- it always ends in failure when I leave God out of my life- when I try to save myself- about like returning to lick up my own vomit- I can’t save myself- then as I reflect on God’s Word- I see- I’m not so much different from many other people- I hear messages from God in his Word- he tells me all I need to know in his Word- he rescues me from myself with messages in his work- and many times I am my own cruel and violent enemy that God comes to rescue me from- I return to my own vomit- I wander about in my life until I realize that I need God- I must have God- then I look and there he is- never left me- even though I think I may have left him- he never left me – and with that I must praise him and give thanks for his steadfast love. – "What did you think of the snow?" – I think it beautifully reflected the light of God and I will give him thanks and praise.

Prayer- Lord, thank you for snow- thanks for your light that shines brightly through the things of this world- even me- keep me in your way and forgive me when I turn- thanks for always being there at all times -- Amen

November 23rd People Reflection

Wednesday 11/23/2005

2 Peter 1-May you keep learning more and more about God and our Lord Jesus.

Jeremiah 41-42-Please pray to the LORD your God for us.

Psalm 139-You have looked deep into my heart, LORD, and you know all about me.

Psalm 80.1-7, 16-18-Stir up your might, and come to save us!

John 6.45-51-Very truly, I tell you, whoever believes has eternal life.

Psalm 28-The LORD is my strength and my shield

"Awww, that’s mean!"- I was showing Stephanie a picture of the world’s ugliest dog. The dog just died and an article was on the MSNBC web site. Now if this dog was a good dog, God would have to really look deep into it’s heart to see some beauty. I wonder how deep God has to look into mine? But God does know all about me. Before I even know about myself God knew about me. And God will be my strength and shield. Knowing how ugly I can get; I’m thankful that God stirred up some love for me and saved me. It’s puzzling to understand why Jesus died for me. But he did. Jesus prayed for me. He went off to pray so many times for all people. It’s all so puzzling why? As life goes on I learn more and more about God’s love but I seem to understand less and less why. Because I sure can get ugly. But Jesus still prayed for me anyway. So I’m led to see his love and believe in him. God proves his love day after day. In rich blessings, God grants me life- And he grants life to the world’s ugliest all the time. "Awww, that’s mean!" – Well, really it’s awesome belief and love. Thanks be to God!

Prayer- Lord, thank you for coming to save the world’s ugliest- you transform ugly into beauty- awesome -- Amen

November 22nd People Reflection

Tuesday 11/22/2005

1 Peter 5-everyone should be humble towards everyone else

Jeremiah 39-40-I, the LORD, have spoken

Psalm 138-you care for humble people

2 Corinthians 9.6-15-And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work.

Luke 5.1-11-He got into one of the boats

Psalm 67-God, our God, has blessed us

"I guess they think I have a pocket full of miracles."- A tradesman talking about Production Management expecting all repairs to be simple and instant. Well sometimes things break and it’s not all that easy to fix- there are no pocket full of miracles- all are humbled by failure- in equipment and in life- but God cares for the humble- and we all should be humble towards one another- respect each other- for God is the only one with the pocket full of miracles- and he can distribute those however he wishes- God does bless me – abundantly and rather than counting the times I don’t receive miracles- I need to count the bounteous times I am blessed- and use my blessings for the good of others- and the biggest blessing of all is when Jesus gets in my boat of life and teaches from the water- weathers the storm and blesses me with fish so plenteous that my nets break and I must share my blessings with others- "I guess they think I have a pocket full of miracles." – Well I may not have all the miracles- but I sure am blessed.

Lord- Thanks for jumping in my boat and blessing me- I want to share -- Amen

November 21st People Reflection

Monday 11/21/2005

1 Peter 4-Everything will come to an end soon

Jeremiah 37-38-Is there any message for us from the LORD?

Psalm 137-Here in a foreign land, how can we sing about the LORD?

Deuteronomy 8.7-18-For the LORD your God is bringing you into a good land…

Matthew 6.5-6-But whenever you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray

Psalm 34-I sought the LORD, and he answered me

"God’s time is different ."- The answer to a question I asked Jake about what he had learned in Catechism. God’s time is different- he has the big picture- everything will come to an end soon- but what is soon?- and during that time between now and soon- is there a message from God for me to hear- as I wander in this foreign land- will I be able to sing to God?- when will he bring me home into a good land?- god does give some clues- and they are here and now- with Jesus by my side- in this quiet place- in prayer- when I seek God it makes him happy that I turn and run to him like a little kid- because I need him- I trust him- I depend on him and he will answer me—In his own time- "God’s time is different." – And that difference is wonderful.

Prayer-Lord, as I run to you this morning- pull me into your arms- you are different and I love you -- Amen

November 20th People Reflection

Sunday 11/20/2005

1 Peter 3-Be beautiful in your heart….This kind of beauty will last, and God considers it very special.

Jeremiah 35-36-So the LORD told me to get another scroll and write down everything that had been on the first on.

Psalm 136-God’s love never fails.

Matthew 25.31-46-When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him

Matthew 21.1-5-Go into the village ahead of you

Psalm 24-that the King of glory may come in

"The computer says I should have that part; but it’s not there."—Trying to get a gasket and thermostat for my car at the parts store—funny- so I guess this guy needed to get another scroll and write down everything that was on the first one- cause somehow the first one was lost- but the scroll I think of in Jeremiah- even though it all sounds so fierce- the judgement of God- I think of this as a scroll of love and caring for God’s people who have chosen to stray- a love of God that never fails- even when I go sour- God’s love is beautiful to the heart- and I need to display a love like that to others- I know God considers this heartfelt love special- because he displayed it in Jesus- Jesus who will come again in glory- oh how I look to that day- but he also comes in glory today and every day- because each day I ask that the King of glory come into my heart- I must do this! – I must relive my baptism every day and feel Jesus presence – here and now- because every day I awake and become aware that God’s love never fails- and I will listen to his commands- Go into the village ahead of you- listen to Jesus voice and follow his command from day to day- what else could I do- "The computer says I should have that part; but it’s not there."- I guess it’s time to listen and let the King of glory come in- then I’ll find that part of love in my heart that has always been there.

Prayer- Lord- help me to find your love in my heart- forgive my sin- and let your love shine through my heart this day- into the hearts of those I meet- with one big bear hug. -- Amen

November 19th People Devotions

Saturday 11/19/2005

1 Peter 2-By his cuts and bruises you were healed

Jeremiah 33-34-I, the LORD, have an agreement with day and night, so they always come at the right time.

Psalm 135-The name of the LORD will be remembered forever

Ephesians 1.15-23-And he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.

Matthew 14.22-31-Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side

Psalm 65-they shout and sing together for joy

"It would be easier to take 275 around." – Picking Sarah up at the airport- taking the easiest road – Jesus didn’t take the easy road though- he suffered cuts and bruises to bring about my healing- through his pain and death -–through his broken and battered body I have been healed- and sometimes I think that the same continues on today- Just like the agreement God has with the day and night- I saw healing in Ernie Bratlie- but he was broken- near death- but he didn’t display illness and death – he was a grand display of life- in my Dad- when he died- he didn’t display heart disease- he displayed love and eternal life- and the same in Jesus- I have to wonder – is that what is meant by "he put everything under his feet"- Jesus turned it all around for those who follow him- death now becomes life- illness- now displays healing- and all in that one grand body of Christ- we are all healing from illness and death- all life long—so that path I must follow is the one Christ commands me to go- go get in the boat and go on to the other side- I’ll meet you there—but guess what? – Jesus didn’t meet them on the other side- he walked out on the water – maybe the waters of my baptism and met me by the boat – encouraged me to depend on those baptismal waters – to walk on those waters- do I have the faith and trust in my baptism?- do I really believe that water will hold me? – I think I must- I think I’ll walk on those waters- and if my faith is sick – Jesus will hold his hand out to me- help me and lead me back into the boat of life—and someday- just like Dad and Ernie and a whole host of other believers- we will arrive to the other side of that lake- and Jesus will have been in that boat with us the entire time- and we will shout and sing together for joy- and the name of the LORD will be remembered forever—"It would be easier to take 275 around." – Awww—forget that—I’m ready for a boat ride with Jesus!

Prayer- Lord, I wanna get out of my boat and walk towards you on my baptismal water- if I sink – I trust you will catch me and take me back to the boat today—we have some work to do today! -- Amen

November 17th People Reflection

Thursday 11/17/2005

James 5-be patient until the Lord returns

Jeremiah 29-30-You will be my people, and I will be your God. I the LORD, have spoken.

Psalm 133-It is truly wonderful when relatives live together in peace

Psalm 95.1-7a-Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving

Hebrews 10.19-25-since we have confidence to enter the sanctuary by the blood of Jesus

Psalm 116-O LORD, I pray, save my life!

"I think you need to start smoking cigars again."- A funny evaluation of my health from a friend. But, he was serious. I picture relatives living in peace together- all standing around smoking cigars and talking peacefully with one another- a kinda funny picture- but one where they really don’t need to worry about the adverse effects of tobacco- because all is now finally good- nothing is bad any longer- a time when God will come again and restore his creation- a time of thanksgiving- a time when we will be God’s people- but that time is here today also- it may not be fulfilled yet- we may still live in a broken, sinful world- but God is here with us- he has opened his sanctuary to us and we are invited into his presence- through the blood of Jesus- through the blood of Jesus he has saved my life- "I think you need to start smoking cigars again."- Well- I won’t – but I will think of a time when that really won’t matter.

Prayer- Lord, I wait for you to return- but at the same time I know of your presence-here and now- it’s funny sometimes- come Holy Spirit here and now to teach me and lead me -- Amen

November 16th People Reflection

Wednesday 11/16/2005

James 4-Surrender to God!

Jeremiah 27-28-I am the All-Powerful LORD God of Israel, and with my power I created the earth, its people, and all animals.

Psalm 132-let your faithful people celebrate and shout

Revelation 18.21-24-no more joy for the wicked

John 3.1-8-You must be born from above

Psalm 71-You are my rock and my fortress

"Tornadic winds are on their way."- my friend Mark reciting a weather report he had heard- I think for those who choose to turn from God this may be true- at some point there will be no more joy for them- but if I surrender- accept his forgiveness and grace- the creator and All-Powerful God will be my rock and fortress- he will protect me from all harm- even the tornadic winds of the end times- I must surrender and be born from above and then that day will come when we will ceaselessly celebrate and shout praises to God- that’s the day I look forward to- but for now- some tornadic winds are on their way- I will give my life to him out of joy and thanks and serve in his kingdom – "Tornadic winds are on their way."

Prayer- Lord use me this day to serve you- even in the windy times- I give myself to you in joy for what you have given me. -- Amen

November 15th People Reflections

Tuesday 11/15/2005

James 3-But the wisdom that comes from above leads us to be pure, friendly, gentle, sensible, kind, helpful, genuine, and sincere.

Jeremiah 25-26-My voice will be heard everywhere on earth…

Psalm 131-you must trust the LORD now and forever

Revelation 18.9-20-For God has given judgement

1 Corinthians 15.51-58-Listen, I will tell you a mystery!

Psalm 26-redeem me, and be gracious to me

"Was that lightening?"—A storm coming in- flashes of lightening and then the downpour- in some way I think of God’s message here- his voice will be heard everywhere on earth- when the lightening flashes and the thunder comes everyone perks up- looks around- god’s judgement will be like that- we will all perk up and look around- the mystery will be revealed to all- but God has given u reason to perk up and look around before he comes- because he has come already- he has come and is with us- through the Sprit we are given wisdom in the Word- wisdom to be pure, friendly, gentle, sensible, kind, helpful, genuine, and sincere- the mystery is known through the Word and the Spirit- we must trust in God now and forever- "Was that lighening?" – yea—and listen to the thunder!

Prayer- Lord I hear your thunder and I see your lightening- let me hear your voice in the silence and wisdom -- Amen

November 14th People reflection

Monday 11/14/2005

James 2-Anyone who doesn’t breathe is dead, and faith that doesn’t do anything is just as dead!

Jeremiah 23-24-Then someday I will bring them back to this land.

Psalm 130-If you kept record of our sins, no one could last long.

Revelation 18.1-8-and the earth was made bright with his splendor

Matthew 3.1-11-Repent for the kingdom of heaven has come near.

Psalm 16-I keep the LORD always before me

"This camera won’t work."—Won’t take the picture for some reason- in the same way anyone who doesn’t breathe is dead—faith is like that too- if there isn’t evidence of faith then is their really any faith- our evidence is a response to the wonderful, graceful gift of forgiveness and life Jesus gave to us years ago- that grace that will someday bring me back to the land God has promised- that will lead me out of the wilderness of life into his life eternal- a gift so great that it erases the record of my sins- because I would never last if someone were counting- that time will come when the earth will be made bright with his splendor- but for now- I repent – seek forgiveness- turn to God and follow in faith- faith with action and service in love to a God who has saved me- and God that will always be before me—"This camera won’t work."—and God will take care of that too.

Prayer- Lord, forgive me- send me- use me --- Amen

November 13th People Reflection

Sunday 11/13/2005

James 1-be glad, even if you have a lot of trouble

Jeremiah 21-22-More cedar in your palace doesn’t make you a better king

Psalm 129-The LORD always does right, and he has set me free

Matthew 25.14-30-to one he gave five talents, to another two…

Colossians 3.12-clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience

Psalm 93-The LORD is king

"Now be quiet and listen to this next song." – A musician singing Christian music- a message from God- be silent and listen- sometimes I need to stop and listen to what is going on around me- listen to the voice of God- in others and in him- in that listening God directs me- look at the direction above of how God directs- clothe myself with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness and patience- God wants me to deal with others in this way- not just focus on myself- but deal with people- shoe his light to others- God has set me free to be different- he has given me all the talents I need- just enough for me- even when I’m in trouble – I can be glad- God is king- and I love him – "Now be quiet and listen to this next song."

Prayer- Lord, I’ll be quiet now…. Amen

November 12th People Reflection

Saturday 11/12/2005

Philemon-My friend, your love has made me happy and has greatly encouraged me.

Jeremiah 19-20-But your message burns in my heart and bones, and I cannot keep silent.

Psalm 128-I pray that the LORD will bless you from Zion

1 Thessalonians 5.1-11-Therefore encourage one another and build up each other

John 4.7-15-"If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ’Give ma a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water."

Psalm 1-They are like trees planted by streams of water

"If you are in Florida and get sick, then look me up."- Dr. Murphy-moving to Florida with his family in a little while. Reminds me of the relationships we build with each other in life- relationships that make us happy – that show us love- relationships that bless us- people placed in our lives using God given gifts to heal – to encourage-to teach- to serve and to do many things I can’t even begin to recall here- and again – relationship with God- personal and in the church- God builds a relationship that is personal and also corporate- a powerful relationship – one that gives each person their own unique message of a saving God that burns in hearts and bones- burns so deeply that you just can’t help to tell someone- burns that I want to respond to this love of God and love others- encourage others- serve others- teach others and do whatever God has called me to do- fed by that living water from that stream that never runs dry- that wonderful baptismal gift of water, promise and action- that Spirit of life that God freely gives. Give me a drink!- "If you are in Florida and get sick, then look me up."-Relationship that moves but continues on—Thanks be to God!

Prayer- Lord-build my relationship with you and others this day. -- Amen

November 11th People Reflection

Friday 11/11/2005

Titus 3-God washed us by the power of the Holy Spirit. He gave us new birth and a fresh beginning.

Jeremiah 17-18-But I will bless those who trust me.

Psalm 127-God takes care of his own, even while they sleep.

Zephaniah 1.7, 12-18-Be silent before the Lord God!

Galatians 3.23-29-for all of you are one in Christ Jesus

Psalm 33-for he spoke, and it came to be

"We usually take it off a couple of minutes early."- The nurse talking about this goofy belt I was wearing – it was recording pictures of my inards- All day I was looking at this little blue light that was supposed to blink if the thing was working right- it did blink all day- but was it working?- I don’t know??- but I guess in some way I had to trust that it was- it didn’t make any difference what I thought- was it working? – I suppose- God works like that light in some ways- we can see the light and know something is happening- but I have to trust in his grace- believe in the Word that I am forgiven and saved and given life anew – I must believe that the Spirit has washed me and given me a new birth- I must trust and have faith in that Light- at times I must be silent and listen to that Light- obey- for in this Light- all things came to be- and through this light I can trust that God will care for me while I’m awake or even asleep- and I know that if I trust in this Light- God will bless me- for all who believe and trust in this Light are on in Christ Jesus. – "We usually take it off a couple of minutes early." – But let that Light shine on in my life.

Prayer- Lord, Come quickly- but in the meantime- use me to let your Light blink in my life- a couple times each second. -- Amen

November 10th People Reflections

Thursday 11/10/2005

Titus 2-We are filled with hope, as we wait for the glorious return of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.

Jeremiah 15-16-Then the LORD told me: Stop talking like a fool!

Psalm 126-The LORD has worked miracles for his people.

Psalm 90.1-12-For a thousand years in your sight are like yesterday when it is past

Isaiah 55.10-11-(the Word)-and succeed in the thing for which I sent it

Psalm 145-The LORD is good to all

"I always get nervous on those conference calls."- A friend at work confiding in a fear of his- Sometimes when I’m like that I think I must talk like a fool—don’t know what I’m saying and jumble the words all around—but I know of a Word that God sent into this world that isn’t jumbled- it is clear and isn’t nervous of conference calls- a Word that succeeded in the thing for which God sent it- a Word that is good to all- a Word that worked miracles for all the people- a Word that fills me with hope and for which I will wait the glorious return- a Word where time is meaningless and insignificant- "I always get nervous on those conference calls." – Look to the Word and put it all in perspective.

Prayer- Lord – send your Word to me this day to lead and guide me. -- Amen

November 9th People Reflections

Wednesday 11/9/2005

Titus 1-Everything is pure for someone whose heart is pure.

Jeremiah 13-14-Don’t forget that you promised to rescue us.

Psalm 125-the LORD protects his people by holding them in his arms now and forever

Matthew 13.53-58-Where did this man get all this?

1 Corinthians 1.20-25-God decided, through the foolishness of our proclamation, to save those who believe.

Psalm 86-Incline your ear, O LORD, and answer me

"It’s fun this time."- Voting- on a touch screen- different- no hanging chads! – It wasn’t the usual- the people in Jesus hometown expected the usual from Jesus- a carpenters son- a tradesman- but he was different- where did he get all this- so they rejected him- he changed- he became new- well- I’m not so sure- maybe they changed- their expectations were not what they should have been- they had low expectations because of his trade and work- but Jesus work was important- to the hometown people it all appeared as foolishness- a carpenters son with wisdom?- but through Jesus I am saved- believe it!- listen to Jesus and answer- feel the comfort of Jesus protecting arms now and forever- feel the rescue he has freely given- change my point of view and listen—"It’s fun this time."

Prayer-Lord, let me listen to you- in whatever form you speak to me-You make it all fun too - Amen

November 8th People Reflections

Tuesday 11/8/2005

2 Timothy 4-I command you to preach God’s message

Jeremiah 11-12-Whenever I complain to you. LORD, you are always fair.

Psalm 124-The LORD was on our side!

1 John 3.1-3-what we will be has not yet been revealed

Ephesians 2.4-7-God, who is rich in mercy

Psalm 36-For with you is the fountain of life

"I’ll just walk from school. It’s not that far."- Stephanie getting transportation- maybe even walk from a school activity- Sometimes it ends up you have to fend for yourself- but in life you can depend on God being with you- God who is rich in mercy- even when you have to do some walking- he will provide the fountain of life- even when you complain – he has always been fair- I must go to God with my struggles- with my walks- be in relationship with him and turn to him even in sin- even in joy- even in the very walk I take in life- I must listen to God and respond- I must preach his message- "I’ll just walk from school. It’s not that far."

Prayer- Lord, teach me in the school of life the lessons I need to understand-walk with me- it’s not that far- forgive me and send me out to preach your message. -- Amen

November 7th People Reflections

Monday 11/7/2005

2 Timothy 3-The Scriptures train God’s servants to do all kinds of good deeds.

Jeremiah 9-10-Our LORD, great and powerful, you alone are God.

Psalm 123-Please have mercy, LORD!

Psalm 70-O LORD, make haste to help me!

Isaiah 29.13-14-I will again do amazing things with this people, shocking and amazing

Psalm 15-O LORD, who may abide in your tent?

"You have to bring the elevator up before the door will open."—An elevator for a wheel chair- you have to bring it up to the floor you are on before the door will open. The door won’t open until you do something- reminds me of reading the scriptures- I read- I believe- the door opens- action becomes obvious- I know what God wants me to do and I’m are happy – thrilled- overjoyed to do it because of what God has already done for me- I realize through scripture how great and powerful God is- how he alone is God- and I realize that all I am depends on God- I need mercy- I need God to help me in life- I need to abide in his tent- in his kingdom- and then he turns around and does shocking and amazing things- through me- to me- and in me- "You have to bring the elevator up before the door will open."- The amazing part is that God will push the button too- and he will open the door- I think I’ll go in the elevator now- it’s time to go somewhere and do something for my Savior.

Prayer- Lord, Put me on whatever floor you like- I’m ready to be sent in your name. -- Amen

November 6th People Reflection

Sunday 11/6/2005

2 Timothy 2-Keep your mind on Jesus Christ!

Jeremiah 7-8-If you listen to me and do what I tell you, I will be your God, you will be my people, and all will go well for you.

Psalm 122-It made me glad to hear them say, "Let’s go to the house of the LORD!"

Revelation 7.9-17-for the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd, and he will bring them to springs of the water of life

Amos 5.21-24-But let justice roll down like water, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream

Psalm 89-Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne

"Happy birthday!"- A birthday greeting- Lives given as gifts from God- lives that are to be rooted in Christ- lives that are to keep mind of Jesus- the giver of all live- lives to listen to God – lives to hear God and go to his house in worship and praise – lives to see the center of life itself in the Lamb on the throne- lives with water poured over them with justice and righteousness of God- lives as gifts from God- "Happy birthday!" – yea – everyday is a new birthday – feel the waters of baptism every day and live the happy life God intends for the redeemed – "Happy birthday!" – Thanks be to God!

Prayer- Lord, today I awake- new and refreshed by the waters of baptism and the gift of new life- Thank you -- Amen

November 5th People Reflections

Saturday 11/5/2005

2 Timothy 1-God saved us and chose us to be his holy people. We did nothing to deserve this, but God planned it because he is so kind.

Jeremiah 5-6-I am the LORD All-Powerful

Psalm 121-The LORD will protect you now and always wherever you go.

Matthew 25.1-13-and those who were ready went with him

Romans 8.12-17-For all you are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.

Psalm 56-For you have delivered my soul from death, and my feet from falling, so that I may walk before God in the light of life.

"Can we go out and do something tonight?" – Stephanie wanted to do something on a Friday night- usual the past few months has been a football game- but the Middies season in over now- so we went out for the night- Stephanie took the lead in coming up with a plan- God takes the lead in my life- through his Spirit God leads and guides me- God delivers me from death, form falling and shows me the Light in the path- God is the All-Powerful God of all time and over all creation- God chooses his people- not because we deserve to be chosen – but because he chooses to choose—so I think about God- "Can we go out and do something tonight?" – I pray for God to lead and guide me out this night and all nights.

Prayer- Lord- Can we go out and do something today? – Amen

November 2nd - 4th People Reflections

Wednesday 11/2/2005

1 Timothy 4- We have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of everyone

Isaiah 38-39-You are going to die, and so you better start doing what need to be done.

Psalm 119.121-144-I honestly want to know everything you teach.

Psalm 34.1-10, 22-I sought the LORD, and he answered me

Luke 12.22-32-strive for his kingdom…it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom

Psalm 72-Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things.

"How ya feelin?"- A friend, noticing how I was down a little. A friend seeing my struggle. God notices these things even before they occur- he is aware of my struggles and he is the one who gives the hope- hope for everyone. Then he cares enough to teach me through the struggle- teach me of a Savior who loves and cares for all his creation. A God who answers when sought. A Savior who’s pleasure is to give me the kingdom- give it- even though I don’t deserve it- A God who has rescued his people throughout time and done wondrous things. Just take notice of God throughout all time- Give thanks—Yea- I’m going to die- so I better get some things done for my God now – while he has gifted me with the ability to serve him. "How ya feelin?"- Body may not be all that hot- but I can still put it to work for the most precious person in my life.

Prayer- Lord-when I’m feelin rough- show me the blessings right before my eyes. -- Amen

Thursday 11/3/2005

1 Timothy 5.1-20-Encourage….

Jeremiah 1-2-Jeremiah, I am your Creator, and before you were born, I chose you to speak for me to the nations.

Psalm 119.145-176-You are my only hope for being saved, LORD

Amos 5.18-24-let justice roll down like water, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream

Revelation 14.1-3-And I heard a voice from heaven like the sound of many waters

Psalm 96-sing to the LORD, all the earth

"You’re going to have to find a different disease."—Dr. Murphy—as I complain about something he is about to do to me- I hate that part! – anyway- we both know what the problem is- it’s just the waiting for more testing and then the treatment- so a little encouragement while waiting- hang in there for a while- Jeremiah needed some encouragement too- and God revealed to him that he was chosen before he was even born- God uses us- God has a plan for me and each person- and in that plan is my opportunity to accept his gift of salvation- a just salvation that flows from an ever-flowing stream- he will be the voice from heaven in the sound of those baptismal- grace filled water- will I stop to hear his voice and relive my baptism each day?- I plan on in- How can I help not to- God’s grace and love causes me to sing to him in all the earth- "You’re going to have to find a different disease."- Well—I think I’ll let God take care of all that anyway- oh—I’ll do my part best I can- but I know of a plan that was put in place even before I was born—and all that disease is solved in the end so to speak.

Prayer- Lord, thank you for some humor in your plan—solve my disease- "in the end" – Now I know what Luther was talking about- I’ll send the last picture home.-- Amen

Friday 11/4/2005

1 Timothy 5.21-6.21-So we should be satisfied just to have food and clothes

Jeremiah 3-4-get rid of those disgusting idols

Psalm 120-Whien I am in trouble, I pray, "Come and save me…

1 Thessalonians 4.13-18-and so we will be with the Lord forever

Matthew 28.18-20-And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.

Psalm 117-for great is his steadfast love toward us

"Come on in Brother Bill." – A friend happy for a visit. Happy for any visit really- overjoyed- set off into some frantic conversation which didn’t make a whole bunch of sense- but really didn’t matter- just the visit mattered- not the conversation- satisfied with the visit- I need to be satisfied with just food and clothes- all the other stuff is just stuff- and that other stuff- is what turns into disgusting idols anyway- so just have a simple satisfaction- and when I’m in trouble for anything else- pray- God will save me- God is always with me anyway- even to the end of the age- showing his steadfast love. – "Come on in Brother Bill."- Be present here Lord Jesus to the end of the age- that’s all I need anyway.

Prayer- Come on in Lord- you alone satisfy -- Amen

November 1st People Reflection

Tuesday 11/1/2005

1 Timothy 3-the church of the living God is the strong foundation of truth

Isaiah 36-37-Please pray for those of us who are left alive

Psalm 119.97-120-Your word is a lamp that gives light wherever I walk.

Matthew 5.1-12-When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain

Ephesians 1.11-23-so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know what is the hope to which he has called you

Psalm 70-Let all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you.

"I need to stay back until all the children clear."- A man walking his dog on Halloween- holding the dog back because children were going from house to house for candy- his dog was all excited and pulling him- really a funny site because I understood- It was dark outside and small children were difficult to see- and with a dog he really needed a light to light his path- Jesus-the Word made flesh – is the light to follow- the light that gives direction- the light that shines in hearts that gives hope and calling- the light we seek daily in prayer and devotion- in reflection- in the written Word and in the spoken Word through others- the Word in creation- Jesus gave that Word years ago in the beatitudes – he went into creation- up the mountain and told his disciples how much God blesses us- all through our life- in suffering and pain and in joy and happiness- just look around and see all the blessings God has given- and in those blessings give thanks and praise- and pray for all those who are left- I am blessed with a church that is living and built on a strong foundation of truth – and in this truth I can see blessings – "I need to stay back until all the children clear."- yea- sometimes you have to take time – go up to the mountain and observe the children and the blessing they bring – those children of God. And look at how anxious that dog is to join in the fun of the children- maybe that’s how I need to be too!

Prayer- Today Lord, I’m anxious to join in the fun of your Kingdom of Saints- I’m pulling hard on that leash- lead me and guide me this day. -- Amen