Who Was That Masked Man?

Who was that masked man? This question was on my mind recently when our son and his family visited with us to celebrate our Christmas gifting with them. We have five grands, three of them foster children, and two of the "fosters" were unsure about a big, jolly man with smiling eyes and a mask covering half of his face, dressed in casual attire and not a Santa suit. They walked around and gave me a few sideways glances. However, once I spoke to them, they recognized my voice and decided it was okay to come to me even if I was not dressed as Santa.

Our Christmas celebration was a little different this year, as I am sure was the same for your families. We are usually all bunched up at our son's in-laws on Christmas eve afternoon to visit all our daughters-in-law's side of the family. We share a meal, a little dirty Santa gift exchange, then we all nestle down, snug in our beds with visions of sugar plums dancing in our heads for a long winter's nap. Christmas morning, we rise to see what Santa left for everyone. It is always a wonderful time. However, we sorely missed the warmth of being with all our family and sharing the gift of wide-eyed, surprised, excitement children have on Christmas morning. 

But, no matter, it was the correct decision for all our families because it is virtually impossible to control something you cannot see or touch, and it is up to us as leaders in our families, communities, and organizations, to follow the guidelines and do our level best to keep everyone as safe as possible. 

As I am writing this letter, I am reminded of the importance of having spiritual leadership in our homes and lives. Spiritual leaders assume the responsibility for the health of their relationships. This means they set the tone. They must initiate what they want others to do. Because no home can thrive without functioning according to sound leadership principles. In 1 Peter, the author challenges us to live with each other in an understanding way. We should honor one another and model submission and service. As spiritual leaders, we should initiate blessing rather than retaliate when things do not go our way.

In these unprecedented times, spiritual leadership is a "must-have" and a "must-do" in our families, communities, and organizations. We must be willing to step up and show patience, kindness, humbleness, faith, hope, joy, and unconditional love for others. When Spiritual leaders lead, they remember the example of Christ's sufferings. When they shepherd, they do it out of a sense of privilege rather than obligation. When they serve, they are motivated by the will of God rather than man. When they minister, they are driven by a Godly passion, not personal gain. When they are influencing, they make sure their life example speaks clearly. And when sacrificing, they have the patience to wait for the ultimate reward and do not expect immediate pay.

In this role, a leader is called to be a minister to the people. We should serve before being served, you know, be the hands and feet of Christ. We should be a mentor to the people. We should eagerly invest our time and talents when serving the people. In other words, we must set an example for others to follow. We should be a manager of the people. We have a responsibility and should exercise oversight over those who have been entrusted in our care, not just family but all those who surround us. Finally, spiritual leaders should/must be a model for the people. We should set an example for others to follow by demonstrating how to live our lives. You know by making a difference and adding value to all those surrounding us.

I want to encourage each of us to be the example of spiritual leadership for others to follow. It has been a tough year for all of us with the uncertainties of the pandemic plaguing our lives, and each day I pray for each of us to experience good health and the unconditional love of Jesus Christ in our lives. Remember, "A leader is to humble himself or herself by casting all his/her cares on God," 1 Peter 5:7. What better way to make a difference and add value than to follow His example for our lives, just saying… 1 Peter 5:1-4

Have a wonderful day.

James Dodwell

What Do You Want For Christmas?

As I was thinking about Advent this morning, my mind wandered to presents for those we love and how to delight them in the midst of a pandemic where we are advised not to gather or travel; what a bummer. My mind went through online purchase with shipping, sending gift cards, making some honorary gifts to good causes, or a combination of these.

As often happens, I quit thinking and started listening. I was reminded the best gifts are usually not wrapped or under a tree. The best gifts are gifts of the heart that we remember and treasure throughout our lives. These are the gifts that define our experiences and add value to our lives. Words from Galatians 5:22-23 came to my mind, “The fruit of the Spirit is joy, love, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.” Immediately, my heart cried out, “Lord, give me a double helping of that fruit. I need it bad.”

I do not know about you, but I am a little strung out with the pandemic. I am concerned about the conflicting and competing directions of some leaders, and I am pretty much fed up with less than truthful reporting and positioning from parties protecting their own self-interest. I found myself identifying with some of the characters in the scriptures; “My soul cries out, O Lord, how long will you allow this to continue.” My answer came quickly: “Until it is over. Until then, watch yourself, and get ready.”

So, I have decided the best presents are not under the tree. The best presents are those that live in the heart and guide our relationships with God and others. I have decided I really do want a double dose of joy, love, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. A double dose might be enough to inoculate me from the brokenness of the world. So, let it be.

By the way, What Do You Want for Christmas?    Blessings, Mike. 

GIVING THANKS IN TURBULENT TIMES

Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Be thankful? Tough ask! Virtually everybody has an opinion about life during Covid-19. The disruptions to our lives, let alone the risk assessment everyone is subconsciously calculating, makes for animated conversations around the coffee pot. In my spot, the idea of “doing no harm” and leading responsibly with great people in our church has been in itself “quite the ride.” Thankfully, I could say, it has taught me a few things. I have learned to be more patient with others and myself. It has affirmed that fear has two sides. Fear keeps us appropriately cautious from jumping without looking first, but it also can paralyze us from living fully. We need balance. I laughed out loud the other night watching a rerun of the silly movie WHAT ABOUT BOB. Bob, a lovable multi-phobic personality, played by Bill Murray, cannot be alone in his daily fear, so inappropriately, he attaches himself to his narcissistic therapist. It is “big funny” because we all have a little bit of Bob or little bit of Dr. Leo Marvin in our world. We probably need to be a little more real about life, like Leo’s son, Siggy.

Being thankful in all circumstances isn’t just because I learn things. It is because of who I learn from and why? We belong to God our Father who made this world, and He desires we be His mature kids. We want to fully understand the significance of this truth. The scripture says that as disciples we learn from Christ, the master teacher/Messiah, who we are in this world and the right things to do. We, who are/are being saved from sin, are God’s redeemed sons and daughters who are learning characteristics like obedience, trust, patience, compassion, confidence, common sense, and wisdom. So, being thankful that God is supernaturally “with us” in Jesus is understandable and developed within us. His presence bolsters our confidence. He ultimately reigns over all things and is now our companion and teacher. We trust He will help us all make sense of things, as we live in His good purposes, both hearing and doing His will amidst a fallen world. 

So yes, during this time of Thanksgiving, we are thankful for His provision and also thankful that we are born from above, in Christ, and these are times to trust and grow.

Barry

Out of Control...Into the Water

Do you ever feel your life is out of control, spinning so fast that you cannot focus on one thing long enough to plant your foot and stop? What??? Yes, me, also. It happens too often these days with all the things happening in our lives, especially now during these times; even in the time way long ago, we now identify as the "pre-covid era", we called "normal" controlling a circumstance depended on the altitude of our attitude. After all, our attitude is controlled by our attitude, which gives us the ability to rise above a situation and review our options with a little more understanding. Lower altitudes inhibit our ability to look ahead or to see through all the stuff that is blocking our vision, on the other hand, higher altitudes allow us to see farther, "Granting us the serenity to accept the things we cannot change, the courage to change the things we can, and the wisdom to know the difference." 

Recently, our son's family came for a visit, and we went to the lake to enjoy the afternoon around the water. The water was extremely rough on that day due to wind and the number of other boaters enjoying their day. While on the boat the grans were stumbling around wanting to stand at the sides and watch the wake cast by the pontoons, but the bounce and rough ride cause them balance issues so we had to kind of subdue them and keep them still, impossible for a four and three year young full of energy, fueled by goldfish, grapes, fruit snacks along with a Capri sun juice packet or twelve. So, we decided to retire back to our friend's house to just get in the water, which was fine with our grandson because our friend's grandson was visiting them. He couldn't wait to share the afternoon playing in the sand and water with him.

It was a nice afternoon, chatting it up with good, longtime friends, talking about anything and everything, and watching the children entertain themselves. Once we begin to gather our belongings to leave, I was standing on the dock listening to the final conversations of the day when I stepped back to grab the cooler and begin to feel myself getting out of control. I could not move my feet fast enough to maintain my balance, and I started to fall backward off the dock. I wished I could have seen me from a different perspective. I bet I was a sight, arms flailing, legs and feet fighting for some solid surface, but to no avail, my body was out of control, falling like a tree being felled right into the shallow water. I remember thinking in those few seconds how out of control I felt, nothing I could do by then to prevent the fall and splash into the water. Oh, I was grabbing at everything, air, birds, dock post, but nothing was there to catch my fall, so I just gave in and patiently awaited my landing, which wasn't bad after I relinquished trying to maintain total control of the situation. It took a minute for everyone to realize what had happened, no harm, no foul, then the laughter began, and it was all good; wet and a little embarrassing; but refreshingly good. 

As leaders, we have been gifted an attitude of altitude to share with our followers. We are representatives of control and guidance for them in our walk and in our talk. It's God's gift to leaders who follow Him as we represent the hands and feet of Christ Jesus. Our vision has been cast, and we have an obligation as leaders in our homes, communities, and organizations to assist in maintaining some control to situations seemingly chaotic and hectic. As leaders, I believe it must do more with controlling self than controlling a situation or others. We walk among the people, share our hope, our faith, our joy, and our unconditional love. Jesus did not come and die for us to live a defeated life. He died to give us life everlasting, undefeated by the problems of the world. If we as leaders, retreat, our followers retreat, if we stand bold as lions (Proverbs 28:1), guess what, they will also.

The Bible warns us if we do not control self, first, we will be slaves to what controls us, food, lust, money, our words, our circumstances, and on and on. Controlling self is the very foundation for living a life of righteousness and selflessness that reflects Jesus and brings glory to God. He has gifted us the power to keep our life in control if we would only lean into Him and ask it in His name.

I encourage each of us to understand it is time to get into the word of God and allow Scripture to change our hearts and minds. Leaders reach out to others and help them understand that maintaining control starts with taking small steps each day to bring our thoughts and actions back in line with God's plan for our lives. After all, how do you eat an elephant, that is right, one bite at a time. Just saying… So today go out there, yes out there in a world of indecision and chaos, to make a difference and add value by sharing your faith, hope, joy, and the unconditional love of Jesus Christ with others. Galatians 5:22-23

Have a wonderful day,

James Dodwell

Life With Assurance

A friend came by for a visit, recently. We exchanged pleasantries about how each of our families was doing, asked if anything was new and how was business; you know, the usual small talk between old friends. Then he began talking about the issues plaguing the world, communities, and families with the current situation. One thing he brought up was how everyone, even him, is living in apprehension and fear and it was very concerning. These words surprised me coming from him because this is a man who, years ago, left everything behind to move his family to Africa, without any knowledge of where they would be living or how they would survive in a strange environment to do missionary work for 20 plus years. Although I thought he was taking a big chance, at the time, the thing that most impressed me about him, and his family, was that they were fearless and focused to endeavor to persevere in their mission to build churches, schools, and other infrastructure to aid the people in Africa. With the Church in support of them, many prayers, and their faith in Jesus Christ, they did just what they set out to do, make a difference and add value to others.

During our visit, the conversation began to stir up feelings of apprehension and fear within me, because, as you know, the past few months have been extremely stressful for all of us and our families; then to create more chaos, the issue with the demonstrations in different cities has compounded the uneasiness of the normally calm, cool and collected, guardian, alpha male in my family. I believe what has troubled me the most is knowing how our faith can falter or become unstable if we allow apprehensions to enter our thinking and we forget to take a deep, spiritual breath of God’s assurance. The only way to remove fear (False Evidence Appearing Real) from our lives is to listen to God’s assurance to us. Just saying…

Although I prefer to hold these feelings close, sometimes even a big boy like me becomes fearful and is filled with apprehension during troubled times. When this happens, I refer to our instruction manual, the Bible and in the Book of Hebrews verses 13:5-6, it states, “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So, we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” In other words, we should not be obsessed with apprehension or fear. This does not mean we will not be tempted to fear or be apprehensive, but we should lean into God’s words of assurance to help us strengthen our resolve and not allow our faith to falter.

When I read this passage, I am reminded of the spiritual leaders and mentors who have blessed my life by sharing their faith, hope, joy, and unconditional love for me. They were always taking time out of their busy schedules to assist me when I failed and when I succeeded. They would politely listen then offer paths to solutions. They did not tell me what to do or how to do it, they simply helped me find my own way and helped me come to my own realization of what needed to be done. They supported my decisions good and bad, and helped me to grow and stretch. Sometimes I got “skin’t up” with some of my lame-brained attempts at growth, but overall, it was not too bad. 

As I ponder the latter, these Spiritual leaders and mentors are placed in our lives to remind us Jesus Christ is always there for us and He is the same yesterday, today and forever. In other words, the wisdom God placed into those spiritual leaders and mentors in years gone by, He can and will do the same for you and me! If we will lean into Him, He will liberate us from fear and apprehension, free us from worry and strife, empower us with knowledge, wisdom and skills that will help us to stretch and grow to reach our potential. Simply stated, they were there to make a difference and add value to us and as we mature, we will be able to do the same for others.

I encourage each of us as leaders in our homes, communities, and organizations to practice the discipline of self. Lean into the Lord who is the ultimate spiritual leader and mentor for our lives. People follow leaders because they see a life, they believe they can trust and one they want to emulate. Be that leaders. Believe, you are that leader. Understand when fear and apprehension begin to creep into our life and our walk, we have a solution, God’s assurance and when we yield to His assurance, we produce a life worth following. It will make a difference and add value. Hebrews 13:5-6

Have a wonderful day,

James Dodwell

Return to Worship

In my studies and devotional life, again and again, I return to the Psalms. These are wonderful real testimonies of the people of God at worship and prayer. They capture the depth of their longings as they learn to trust and live in a land with Yahweh. The last five Psalms are called “the great Hallel.” They all begin and end with “Praise Yah.” No matter what our circumstances, we find they are small compared to the greatness of God. I find this to be a great comfort, which leads me to the topic of FUMC returning to public worship.

Mike and I gave our best effort to provide our leaders with a "return to public worship" protocol. These protocols are a plan to lovingly and safely return to public gatherings of worship. Guided by our Bishop and medical professionals, we offered guidelines to our trustees for approval. Respectfully, the trustees voted to re-open Jacob’s Ladder on June 1 in order to serve a critical need in our community. In addition, they voted FUMC may return to public worship on June 14. We will follow these protocols for six weeks with possible extensions. Please note there are varying, valid opinions about our safe return, but we all agree how vital our worship life and communion are to our well being. Please grant us the courtesy of honoring these protocols for everyone’s sake.

The hallmarks of the protocols are these: 1. To practice social distancing upon arriving, being seated, and departing. 2. Wearing masks. 3. Temperature gatherings. 4. Gloves or hand sanitizing. 5. Limiting bathroom use. 6. Updated cleaning practices by our staff.

The June 14 date allows us several advantages. We will better know how the “spread of the virus” is tracking, gain insight in regard to other churches who have returned at earlier dates, and be provided the time to assess the broken AC unit at the Arbor. Lastly, it also allows our staff to acquire the needed supplies to support our return. Be aware this start date is contingent on the Bishop and Cabinet not extending the June 1 “not before date.”

I offer a special thanks to Neal Watts and our trustees, who have faithfully guided us through massive events. The protocols will be communicated to everyone shortly; please allow some time to read and learn them. We have a great team of leaders, and it has been a long nine weeks for everyone.

Barry

A Follower's Thoughts

I woke up this past Sunday, thinking about all the changes our country and the world are going through due to the Corona Virus outbreak. It has definitely changed the way we think about ourselves, the way we conduct ourselves, and the way we have had to adjust our routines in life.

Then I got to thinking, you know maybe, just maybe, God is trying to get our attention. God said to me, “Hey instead of looking at the bad side of this situation, why don’t you look at the good side. I’m slowing you down. You were living too much of a fast-paced life. Your to-do lists were getting too long, taking up too much of your time. You need to spend more time with me. Build a better relationship with my son, Jesus. Spend more time with your wife and children. Build a healthier relationship with them. I’m giving you the time now to do that.”

Then God told me. “I understand what you are going through. I understand what your country and the world is going through. I made my children to be social people. I know you want to get out and interact with others…to go and see and talk to family, and friends, to worship with your church family, spread the Gospel and show the love of my son to all who will hear. But, right now, I’m not allowing it. Why? Because you need to be still and know that I am your God and I am with you. Trust me, I’ve got this. You need to bond with me, read my words, and yes once again, build a relationship with my son. You see, there were times in my son’s life, that I had to pull him away from the crowds. He had to come to me for strength and renewal of his mind, body, and soul. Now my child, I am giving you this opportunity to do that very same thing that I gave my son. Time with me. I have a purpose for everything. Even though you may not see it now, you will someday. Out of the ashes, good will rise, just as I rose my son up to conquer death.”

So, I wrote these words down from God, to give us all encouragement in times of uncertainty. I searched scripture in Mathew 14:22-23. This was right after Jesus had fed the five thousand. It says, “Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was alone.”

Everyone. Find your mountain, in these troubled times, to be alone with God. Hey, if Jesus did it, it must be good stuff! We will all get through this pandemic. Look at it this way, we may not be there with our family, friends, loved ones, or church family, but rest assured, God is with them and God is with us.

Besides, God has given us the technology through our smart phones and computers to communicate with family and friends, and most of all, to spread the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to others. Let us all be thankful of that! Let us all build a relationship with Christ Jesus in this time we have been given, so that when this pandemic is over, we can rise up and come down the mountain, renewed in body, mind, and soul, to go among the crowds again to bring the Gospel of Jesus to those who most desperately need it. God Bless!

Correll Pritchard

I Want to Go to “You” House

In the past, I have avoided using “social media” as much as possible because you lose track of time when surfing Facebook posts and all the other things available. However, during this “Staycation” we are all experiencing social media, particularly “Face Time” has been a wonderful thing as we’re practicing “Social Distancing” with our family, friends, and work associates. It’s difficult when you want, but can’t, visit your children and grandchildren, but it is better to be safe in this current world environment. It’s even more difficult for young children who are used to seeing their Ce-Ce at least once a week, in person, to understand the complexities of having to be separated from the loving arms, hugs, and kisses of their Ce-Ce.

Recently, during a “Face Time” visit with our son and his family, our granddaughter said; “I want to go to YOU house, Ce-Ce!” “I know darling, but you can’t right now, I will see you soon”, sighed Ce-Ce. ” I want to go to YOU house, Ce-Ce!” she said with much more volume and inflection in her voice as if Ce-Ce didn’t understand. But oh, how she understood. “I sorry darling, not today, but soon, okay?” “I lub you Ce-Ce, I lub you, Pa-Pa!”, those sweet grandchildren shouted as we ended the call, with heavy hearts and almost in tears.

The “interaction interruption” that has recently plagued our world and altered our lives hasn’t been easy on anyone and has touched every aspect of our existence in some way, form, or fashion. This microscopic evil has created an unwanted paradigm shift in all our lives; meaning our lives will never be the same and the change will take us to a new normal; who knows what that will look like in the future and when we can begin again. However, we can hope we will come back stronger and more aware of what is truly important to all of us, God – Family - Career in this order.

Outside of the family interaction and workplace interruption, one of the most obvious and disturbing shifts is the suspension of our coming together as a church family for worship. When I think about it, our granddaughter’s words ring true and clear, “I want to go to YOU house. “, and I want to follow that up by saying, “I want to go to YOU house, Jesus.” I don’t want to take no for an answer or hear any other excuses why I can’t. However, for the sake of helping to keep our families, friends, community, and world safe and healthy we must comply and be patient, for now. We must continue praying for His healing touch on our lives and our world. When the healing comes and it will, we need to celebrate by filling our places of worship to overflowing and share our faith, hope, joy, and unconditional love like He intended for us to do.

Difficult times are calling for leaders to correct and direct the people back to the narrow path. They are gifted the skills and the power over people. This gift is not to brow-beat the people or hit them over the head with the Bible but to show them the way through their walk, actions, and reactions. Effective leaders emerge during difficult times to speak the cause for righteousness. They are truly burdened by the world’s condition and want to help by being a source of light and hope. As we watch effective spiritual leaders in action, we should be reminded that we serve a God of order and harmony, not of chaos as Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 14:33, “God is not the author of confusion but of peace.” 

During this “interaction interruption” we are being transformed. We as leaders need to understand that our leadership is needed now more than ever because leadership is about transformation, not mere information. However, information is important to transformation as leaders challenge the people to pray in the Spirit. They share hope and unconditional love for the people. They have compassion on the doubters and help lead them into the Light. 

I encourage each of us, once this too has passed, to go to YOU house, Jesus and celebrate His love and forgiveness with our Church family. As leaders in our homes, communities, and organizations, be the hope and the light for others to follow. Stay focused, be safe and do all you can to make a difference and value to others. 1 Corinthians 14:33

Have a wonderful day,

James Dodwell

The Cross and Corona Virus

“From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests, and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.” Matthew 16:21

Loved ones, I can say with great certainty that I have never merged the two words “Cross” and “Corona” until today. I will avoid the obvious thought that Corona is another word for “crown.” I have used cross and crown in a sentence.

Today, I want you to do what Christians have been asked to do for two Millennia, reflect on the meaning of that Roman cross. It hangs around our neck. It adorns our altars of worship. It sits on our mantles. Why? It is the single most recognizable sign of a covenant sacrifice between God and human beings. I affirm today that no “virus” could ever change that reality. The cross changes our very existence FOREVER.  

So, during Holy Week, notice that protestants cherish an empty cross and not a crucifix. The reason is to emphasize the cross as a completed event. It leads to resurrection, but don’t pass over it too quickly.  

The cross is the will of the heavenly Father for Jesus. Matthew declares Jesus was to become a sin offering for all people. A divine sacrificial covenant redeeming the sons and daughters of Adam and Eve. A concept that takes us way back to a time in Abraham’s life when God puts him in a dream to swear a redemptive covenant with Him (Gen 15: 12-21). A covenant ratified with God himself in the form of a smoking pot and a flaming torch passes between a sacrifice prepared by the man, Abraham. An unprecedented picture of God walking between an animal sacrifice to say, I swear by Myself to keep the promise that I make to you. It is an incredibly gracious condescension. Why? He loves His creation so much that He is efforting to be with us through Abraham. Well, a greater one than Abraham or David or any servant is present in Jesus. He is unlike anyone. A perfectly obedient, unique Son who accomplishes God’s will in establishing His Kingdom on earth. God is finally incredibly “with us.” This redemptive effort brings Jesus to us as Son and King. His work is teaching the true God honoring life and a cross. He is king of a different kind; a servant King who loves and gathers His children into God’s presence (or salvation) by dying for them on a cross and then overwhelming the greatest efforts of an evil, terrible death. He will conquer evil’s best and final weapon, but before He does, He redemptively suffers for you and me. Think on these things redeemed children of God.

Brother Barry Dunn

Balanced Perspective

I was a young man beginning at the beginning of a corporate career. I was not very savvy about corporate politics, but very fortunate, the Director of Human Resources had taken a personal interest in my development plan. He chose me as his golf partner in our company golf league, and we played golf together every week for a number of years. George was a tremendously competitive man both on the golf course and in his professional life. He was a devout Christian with tremendous integrity.

   One day, as we were playing golf, I was briefing him on a significant issue we were facing, and he was asking particular questions to develop his understanding of the facts and what our responses had been to that point. As we were riding between shots, he suddenly said, “You need to make sure you have a blend of W.C. Fields and the Boy Scout Motto.” I was stunned and asked him what he meant. He replied, “The more experience you gain and the more challenges you have, you must always remain optimistic and, at the same time, always be prepared. Now, I’m going to make this putt, and if I don’t, you’re my back up plan.”

   I worked for George for about ten years, and we were partners the whole time. I never saw him compromise his integrity or violate his rule. He was always prepared and, as a result, always optimistic.

   As we work our way through the challenge/s that face us, may we optimistically claim, “This too shall pass,” as we wash our hands, maintain the discipline of social distancing, and continue to be prepared.

   A healthy perspective in life is always about hopeful optimism and being prepared.

Brother Mike Densmore

The Problem with Evil: Further Thoughts on Romans 8 in the Days of Corona

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[i] have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8: 28

What is our take-away from Romans 8? What does living in the tension between a fallen creation and a new creation look like for us?  It looks likewise and resilient faith, hope and love.  Here are some hints: 1. We’d best be honest about the dangers and not test God by living recklessly, but wisely, confidently and faithfully serving. Paul was well acquainted with pain and suffering, but Christ gave Him perspective based on a promised future. Remember, he left his mission team in Berea (Acts 17) because of danger. Live wisely.  2. Trials and hurts often unlock our hearts and minds to hearing the word of God. So, be honest with pain but embrace your Bible and your prayer life when you hurt. Pain and suffering can drive us from God or draw us to Him. 3. Trials can temper you. So soberly ask yourself, what needs to change in me? 4. Trials engender in us opportunities to show grace and mercy to others, just as Jesus does with us. Live grace-filled lives, enriching others and glorifying God.  This is how we wait and pray for deliverance from the Corona Virus and all the corruptions of this world.

 In response:  I am asking all our members to call 3 shut-ins, 3 family members and 3 friends each day to check on them.

Brother Barry Dunn

Embrace “The Holy” and Maintain Social Distances

 These are certainly challenging times as we live with warnings and cautions that restrict our liberties in this “Land of the free and Home of the Brave.” We are called, I believe, to a high standard of sacrificial living that compels us to suspend our liberties for the greater good of our neighbors and ourselves. Is this not what liberty has always required. Throughout history, the patriots of our societies have marched into battles, sacrificed lives and careers, and many paid the ultimate price ensuring the blessings of liberty for our time and place. As we are being called to the disciplines of social distancing and protective hygiene, may we find ways to become closer in holy ways. Prayer, reading the scriptures and devotions are ways I have always found helpful especially when I could share thoughts with loved ones and friends. Another way has been to read and reflect on some of the great hymns of the faith.

     Some of you have heard me tell the story of changing my favorite hymn from “1. My Faith Looks Up to Thee” to “2. Love Divine All Loves Excelling.” This happened as I was reflecting on the last verses of these great hymns and “My Faith Looks Up to Thee” had been my favorite for decades. Then, I compared the last verses:

• 1. “When ends life’s transient dream, when death’s cold, sullen stream shall o’er me roll; blest Savior, then in love, fear and distrust remove; O bear me safe above, a ransomed soul.”

• 2. “Finish, then, thy new creation; pure and spotless let us be. Let us see thy great salvation perfectly restored in thee; changed from glory into glory, till in heaven we take our place, till we cast our crowns before thee, lost in wonder, love, and praise.”

     As I wrestled with these two texts in the presence of “The Holy,” it seemed the first was more about me and ensuring my ticket for heaven and the second was more about surrender. Since then, I have been convicted many times by looking in the mirror and realizing I put a crown back on many days.

     How can you embrace “The Holy” and maintain social distances? Perhaps another old hymn might help: “Precious Lord, take my hand, lead me on, let me stand, I am tired, I am weak, I am worn; through the storm, through the night, lead me on to the light: Take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home.”

                            Embrace the Holy who has already embraced you.   Blessings, Mike  

The Problem with Evil: Further Thoughts on Romans 8 in the Days of Corona

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: ‘For your sake, we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.’ No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” Romans 8: 35-37

Remember, we live in the tension of a fallen creation. It is filled with death, decay, and rebellion. This reality is starkly different from the future new heaven and earth. The Holy Spirit is with you bringing the power and fellowship we long for today. He is also proof of the certainty of God’s preferred future. The life we cherish is not one of temporary power, temporary health or temporary wealth that ends in futility. Granted, it is easier to discuss this when we are not in a crisis of grief or fear. When the Day of the Lord arrives, our faith in Christ, as Paul says in Romans 8:28, assures us “All things work together for good, to those that love God and are called according to His purpose.” We are confident that we will be conformed to the risen likeness of Jesus, that we are more than conquerors of the death and decay of this creation. Why confident? Because it is God’s final plan, and He sits as King of all creation and history. Like Abraham, we are now God’s children by faith. We are purchased with Christ's blood. His redeemed sons and daughters. “So, what shall separate me from the love of Christ?” Not one thing of this sin-ravaged world, not famine, not hardship, not persecution, not dangers in this world, not disease. One day, when the time is right, all things will be made right. We shall be conformed to His resurrected image. Until then, I belong to His mission and the pain sometimes caused by that mission. Suffering will give way to His future and goodness. He will set right, all wrongs, and wipe away our tears. So, we wait, serve, endure, pray, and enjoy the comfort of the Holy Spirit’s abiding presence.

Brother Barry Dunn

A Thought For Today

I took a step back the other day when my wife and I went to Walmart to buy groceries. There were so many people there! The parking lot was full. It looked like the Christmas Season, yet here it is March. Shelves, where toilet paper, bleach, sanitizers, and disinfectants are usually stocked, were empty, none, stripped bare! So many people at the checkout isles with buggies full of these products.

In the midst of this Coronavirus, around the world and now in the United States, people literally seemed to be in a panic! Now, I’m not saying we all should not do our part in helping to prevent the spread of this virus. We, as a church, as a body of Christ, should do everything possible to protect the well being of all our citizens in our communities. We, as a church, should do everything possible to protect children, the elderly, and those who are the most vulnerable to this virus. But, to let fear override rational thinking. It's exactly what Satan wants! When we panic, we play right into the hands of the Devil! You see, fear is a liar!

What should we do in times of trials and tribulations? We should run into the hands and arms of our Savior, Jesus Christ! It is there and only there that we have no fear. No fear of sicknesses, no fear of diseases, and yes, no fear of death! Jesus conquered all these things for us at the Cross!

2 Corinthians 5:1 says, "for we know if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands." So, as children of God, let us all go out and do our part to help keep this virus from spreading but, let us not fear anything. Knowing that all our problems, our sins, our fears, and anxieties have been cured. Cured by our Savior, Jesus Christ, who endured the Cross, was crucified, dead, and buried. On the third day, he rose from the dead and is now preparing a place for us in the heavenly realms.

God Bless.

Correll Pritchard