These articles are recent devotionals written by our Lutheran Brethren women from 2009-2012:
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Happy New Year!
by Lori Christopherson, WMCLB Treasurer
January 2012
Happy New Year!
We have just celebrated our Savior’s birth in our advent season. My favorite part this year was the series of sermons that our church was given on John 3:16. A video that was played, has replayed in my mind over and over.
This is what it said:
For God The Greatest Good
So Loved The Greatest Action
The World The Greatest Need
That He Gave The Greatest Example
His Only Son The Greatest Sacrifice
For Whoever The Greatest Invitation
Believes In Him The Greatest Response
Shall Not Perish The Greatest Horror
But Have Eternal Life The Greatest Gift
John 3:16 The Greatest Promise
As we have spent much time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ we now need to make a plan for the New Year. Many times the gift that has been received loses its excitement and is laid on a shelf or buried under other gifts. If we value a gift, it is something we will wear often, play often and use often. We let others use it, or in some cases if it is a kitchen gadget we prepare items to share with others. God has given us this time to enjoy His gift. Let us not forget that it is a gift that can be shared not just once for ourselves. It is a gift that fits everyone.
Have you made a plan this year to share the Greatest Gift in all the world? I would love to hear how you are sharing this gift. Are people able to see this gift in your life? Because He loves us we can know how to love others. Because He died for us we can live for Him. Because He has promised us eternal life we have hope to give.
Our Women’s Ministry Team has made prayerful plans for this each year. For the first time since I have been on the team we are experiencing a real need for our budget. We have planned to give the Pastors' wives the gift of encouragement and time to share with fellow ministry wives. The Pastor is giving out the gift of Jesus each day. The Pastor and his wife experience what each of us may experience; health issues, financial issues, trials, temptations. They have an added responsibility to be a partner with the Pastor of your congregation. Many times this can add the joys, heartaches, trials, and celebrations, but can leave very little time for themselves.
Please join with us in sharing this gift.
We have just celebrated our Savior’s birth in our advent season. My favorite part this year was the series of sermons that our church was given on John 3:16. A video that was played, has replayed in my mind over and over.
This is what it said:
For God The Greatest Good
So Loved The Greatest Action
The World The Greatest Need
That He Gave The Greatest Example
His Only Son The Greatest Sacrifice
For Whoever The Greatest Invitation
Believes In Him The Greatest Response
Shall Not Perish The Greatest Horror
But Have Eternal Life The Greatest Gift
John 3:16 The Greatest Promise
As we have spent much time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ we now need to make a plan for the New Year. Many times the gift that has been received loses its excitement and is laid on a shelf or buried under other gifts. If we value a gift, it is something we will wear often, play often and use often. We let others use it, or in some cases if it is a kitchen gadget we prepare items to share with others. God has given us this time to enjoy His gift. Let us not forget that it is a gift that can be shared not just once for ourselves. It is a gift that fits everyone.
Have you made a plan this year to share the Greatest Gift in all the world? I would love to hear how you are sharing this gift. Are people able to see this gift in your life? Because He loves us we can know how to love others. Because He died for us we can live for Him. Because He has promised us eternal life we have hope to give.
Our Women’s Ministry Team has made prayerful plans for this each year. For the first time since I have been on the team we are experiencing a real need for our budget. We have planned to give the Pastors' wives the gift of encouragement and time to share with fellow ministry wives. The Pastor is giving out the gift of Jesus each day. The Pastor and his wife experience what each of us may experience; health issues, financial issues, trials, temptations. They have an added responsibility to be a partner with the Pastor of your congregation. Many times this can add the joys, heartaches, trials, and celebrations, but can leave very little time for themselves.
Please join with us in sharing this gift.
"No Random Act"
by Ruth Vallevik, Director of Women's Ministries
December 2011
"Random acts of kindness" I've heard about. But "Random Acts of Culture?" This was new to me.
At high noon on October 30, 2010, in a huge Macy's store in Philadelphia which was packed with shoppers, a throng of 650 singers burst into the "Hallelujah Chorus" from Handel's beloved "Messiah." The singers, representing 28 organizations brought together by the Opera Company of Philadelphia, had infiltrated the store disguised as shoppers. Startled people stopped everything and listened to the gorgeous music and stirring words:
The kingdom of this world
Is become the kingdom of our Lord,
And of his Christ, and of his Christ;
And He shall reign forever and ever,
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
There were tears, even among professed atheists whose hearts were strangely touched not only by the beauty of the sound but by the profound message of Christ: Christ among us, Christ victorious.
The YouTube video went viral as word spread of another successful event staged around the country through an initiative called Random Acts of Culture, whose purpose is to integrate the arts into all areas of common life.
I've been thinking about history's most startling of all interruptions into the ordinary life of humanity. In a lowly stable in a tiny village, accompanied by humble people, God Himself burst onto the scene. No Random Act of Culture, this. No, this was an eternal design by Almighty God to rescue His lost creation - to provide a Savior for them.
Who could ever have imagined that what was occurring under that shabby roof that night would bring Hope, Peace and Salvation to ME, across 2,000 years?
But it has. God has done just that...
Hallelujahs, anyone?
At high noon on October 30, 2010, in a huge Macy's store in Philadelphia which was packed with shoppers, a throng of 650 singers burst into the "Hallelujah Chorus" from Handel's beloved "Messiah." The singers, representing 28 organizations brought together by the Opera Company of Philadelphia, had infiltrated the store disguised as shoppers. Startled people stopped everything and listened to the gorgeous music and stirring words:
The kingdom of this world
Is become the kingdom of our Lord,
And of his Christ, and of his Christ;
And He shall reign forever and ever,
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
There were tears, even among professed atheists whose hearts were strangely touched not only by the beauty of the sound but by the profound message of Christ: Christ among us, Christ victorious.
The YouTube video went viral as word spread of another successful event staged around the country through an initiative called Random Acts of Culture, whose purpose is to integrate the arts into all areas of common life.
I've been thinking about history's most startling of all interruptions into the ordinary life of humanity. In a lowly stable in a tiny village, accompanied by humble people, God Himself burst onto the scene. No Random Act of Culture, this. No, this was an eternal design by Almighty God to rescue His lost creation - to provide a Savior for them.
Who could ever have imagined that what was occurring under that shabby roof that night would bring Hope, Peace and Salvation to ME, across 2,000 years?
But it has. God has done just that...
Hallelujahs, anyone?
From seeing nothing... to seeing everything!
by Debi Foss Eastern Region President
November 2011
This fall our church has been doing the newly released Bible Study entitled “Christianity Explored.” It is a study released just this year on the Gospel of Mark that uses both DVD and a handbook.
While many of Jesus’ miracles are covered in this study, one particular lesson included the story about the healing of the blind man. I’ve probably heard and read about the story of the blind man 50 times in my life but this time, God taught me something new.
Mark 8:22-26
Jesus Heals a Blind Man at Bethsaida
22 They came to Bethsaida, and some people brought a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. 23 He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When he had spit on the man’s eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, “Do you see anything?” 24 He looked up and said, “I see people; they look like trees walking around.” 25 Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. 26 Jesus sent him home, saying, “Don’t even go into the village.”
When Jesus healed the blind man, he didn’t heal him 100% right away.
At first, the blind man just saw people that looked “like trees walking around”. He didn’t see people’s exact faces. He didn’t notice what people were wearing or if there was food around. It was probably like “blobs in motion”, maybe similar to when I try to find something around my house without my contacts in or glasses on.
Then, Jesus touched the man’s eyes again and suddenly his full vision was restored. NOW…he was able to see all the wonderful details of the life that lived around him. The man went from seeing nothing…to something…to everything.
Why did Jesus do it that way? Why didn’t he just restore the sight and move on? And how does this relate to me in 2011?
God is like that with us. I don’t think God “fully” reveals Himself as soon as we are saved. Our brains would explode with amazement and wonder! In bits and pieces and at just the right time, He shows Himself to us. He wants us to know more and more about Him every day. Through His Word, a daily relationship with Him, our prayer lives, everyday life, relationships with people, seasons in life, and especially in trials and tribulations, we learn more and more just how awesome God REALLY is! The older I get, I realize just how much more there is to know about my Savior Jesus Christ.
This thanksgiving season, let’s remember to thank God for helping us to go from seeing nothing…to something…to everything!
While many of Jesus’ miracles are covered in this study, one particular lesson included the story about the healing of the blind man. I’ve probably heard and read about the story of the blind man 50 times in my life but this time, God taught me something new.
Mark 8:22-26
Jesus Heals a Blind Man at Bethsaida
22 They came to Bethsaida, and some people brought a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. 23 He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When he had spit on the man’s eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, “Do you see anything?” 24 He looked up and said, “I see people; they look like trees walking around.” 25 Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. 26 Jesus sent him home, saying, “Don’t even go into the village.”
When Jesus healed the blind man, he didn’t heal him 100% right away.
At first, the blind man just saw people that looked “like trees walking around”. He didn’t see people’s exact faces. He didn’t notice what people were wearing or if there was food around. It was probably like “blobs in motion”, maybe similar to when I try to find something around my house without my contacts in or glasses on.
Then, Jesus touched the man’s eyes again and suddenly his full vision was restored. NOW…he was able to see all the wonderful details of the life that lived around him. The man went from seeing nothing…to something…to everything.
Why did Jesus do it that way? Why didn’t he just restore the sight and move on? And how does this relate to me in 2011?
God is like that with us. I don’t think God “fully” reveals Himself as soon as we are saved. Our brains would explode with amazement and wonder! In bits and pieces and at just the right time, He shows Himself to us. He wants us to know more and more about Him every day. Through His Word, a daily relationship with Him, our prayer lives, everyday life, relationships with people, seasons in life, and especially in trials and tribulations, we learn more and more just how awesome God REALLY is! The older I get, I realize just how much more there is to know about my Savior Jesus Christ.
This thanksgiving season, let’s remember to thank God for helping us to go from seeing nothing…to something…to everything!
"I don't know if you remember me..
by Barb Westfall, past Eastern Region President
October 2011
My phone rang one day. “Is this Barbara?” I heard when I answered. “I don’t know if you remember me, but my name is Jeff Olsen.”
“Of course I remember you!” I interrupted. I met Jeff several years ago when he was at my home church during a training session for servant teams with Youth Ministries. He returned the following summer with another team. I also saw him that summer when I joined the Teen Week staff at Tuscarora. Jeff was my son’s counselor that year. Jeff was a person who gave from his heart. People like him leave a lasting impression.
We had a very joyous reunion by phone. Jeff shared with me the news of his growing family and many of the blessings bestowed on him since we last met. He was very excited to tell me about the newest church in the Eastern District. He and his family and a core group were starting a Home Mission Church in Florida. He has already seen many answers to prayer, but was calling to ask for District prayers of support.
Reminiscing with Jeff brought to mind a time when I had started a conversation with, “I don’t know if you remember me”…
A few years ago I was taking care of a baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery. She had multiple handicaps and was scheduled for surgery early the following morning. I held her a lot that night singing “Jesus Loves Me” and telling her about Jesus. Her Mom was in early the next morning and I met her for the first time. I told her about our night and she was very grateful that I talked about Jesus. She had several hours to wait during the surgery, so I asked if she would like my pocket testament to read. I gave it to her and left shortly afterward. I never saw the Mom again since she would visit during the daytime hours.
I was never assigned to care for the baby again, but I followed her progress. Unfortunately her condition declined steadily over a couple of months until at last God called her home.
I went to her funeral. As I approached her mother I began, “I don’t know if you remember me…” She immediately threw her arms around me and replied, “Of course I remember you; you gave me your Bible!”
We have the opportunity to impact others’ lives by doing simple things or offering words of encouragement. We never know what that might mean to someone. Won’t you join me in praying for Jeff, his family and the newest church in the Eastern Region as they impact lives for Jesus Christ!
“Of course I remember you!” I interrupted. I met Jeff several years ago when he was at my home church during a training session for servant teams with Youth Ministries. He returned the following summer with another team. I also saw him that summer when I joined the Teen Week staff at Tuscarora. Jeff was my son’s counselor that year. Jeff was a person who gave from his heart. People like him leave a lasting impression.
We had a very joyous reunion by phone. Jeff shared with me the news of his growing family and many of the blessings bestowed on him since we last met. He was very excited to tell me about the newest church in the Eastern District. He and his family and a core group were starting a Home Mission Church in Florida. He has already seen many answers to prayer, but was calling to ask for District prayers of support.
Reminiscing with Jeff brought to mind a time when I had started a conversation with, “I don’t know if you remember me”…
A few years ago I was taking care of a baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery. She had multiple handicaps and was scheduled for surgery early the following morning. I held her a lot that night singing “Jesus Loves Me” and telling her about Jesus. Her Mom was in early the next morning and I met her for the first time. I told her about our night and she was very grateful that I talked about Jesus. She had several hours to wait during the surgery, so I asked if she would like my pocket testament to read. I gave it to her and left shortly afterward. I never saw the Mom again since she would visit during the daytime hours.
I was never assigned to care for the baby again, but I followed her progress. Unfortunately her condition declined steadily over a couple of months until at last God called her home.
I went to her funeral. As I approached her mother I began, “I don’t know if you remember me…” She immediately threw her arms around me and replied, “Of course I remember you; you gave me your Bible!”
We have the opportunity to impact others’ lives by doing simple things or offering words of encouragement. We never know what that might mean to someone. Won’t you join me in praying for Jeff, his family and the newest church in the Eastern Region as they impact lives for Jesus Christ!
Fall - Beginning or ending?
by Cheryl Olsen,WMCLB Secretary
September 2011
Fall! The word conjures up sights, scents, and sounds from my childhood – shuffling my shoes through piles of crunchy leaves on the way home from school, a crisp wind carrying the slight scent of fireplace smoke, cozy sweaters, sharp whistle sounds punctuating the air during football practice across the street from my home. Fall was the beginning of school, and in many ways it brought change and growth.
However this year, autumn seems like an ending that I don’t want to come. I don’t want to let go of summer! It’s September, but I’m not ready for fall yet! I want to hang onto the hope of more sunny skies, carefree vacation days, and time spent with family.
The Bible says that there is a time and a season for everything – planting, reaping, joy, sorrow, a time to be born, and a time to die. Whoa! A time to die? Yes. That’s another feature of fall – trees dropping their leaves; plants dying.
Lives of people come to an end too. Some are in the fall season of life. Or even the winter season. Yet God has planned for that life to continue eternally, if she will only trust in Him for salvation. I need to be reminded that the fall season – whether taken literally, or as the latter part of one’s life – that fall can be a beginning of a relationship with Jesus Christ!
As I write this, I am praying that God will begin a new work in you and me this fall to change and grow us, and that we will embrace this season of opportunity to impact those He brings into our lives with His love! Will you join me?
However this year, autumn seems like an ending that I don’t want to come. I don’t want to let go of summer! It’s September, but I’m not ready for fall yet! I want to hang onto the hope of more sunny skies, carefree vacation days, and time spent with family.
The Bible says that there is a time and a season for everything – planting, reaping, joy, sorrow, a time to be born, and a time to die. Whoa! A time to die? Yes. That’s another feature of fall – trees dropping their leaves; plants dying.
Lives of people come to an end too. Some are in the fall season of life. Or even the winter season. Yet God has planned for that life to continue eternally, if she will only trust in Him for salvation. I need to be reminded that the fall season – whether taken literally, or as the latter part of one’s life – that fall can be a beginning of a relationship with Jesus Christ!
As I write this, I am praying that God will begin a new work in you and me this fall to change and grow us, and that we will embrace this season of opportunity to impact those He brings into our lives with His love! Will you join me?
"Unfinished Projects"
by Marilyn Naseth,
Central Region WMCLB Secretary
August 2011
Homeowners know their “projects to be completed” list will never end. Things break down and need repair. The paint chips, fades, or scuffs. Walls and woodwork gets dented or holes mysteriously appear when your children get too aggressive in their play. The plumbing leaks and so does the roof. Windstorms lift off shingles and scatter them in the yard. These same storms may blow down trees or knock down branches. I’m sure I could gather sticks from my yard on a weekly basis.
Many of us have unfinished hobby projects—things we either lose interest in, or are too busy to complete. Someday we’ll get back to them, maybe.
Last month I made a list of unfinished projects from the remodeling we started two summers ago. The list is comprised of mostly small items that could easily be forgotten about, or put off indefinitely. My husband started working on that list again and he lets me cross them off as they’re completed. I try to strike a balance between too pushy about it, or too lax. Some of the items on the list are tasks for me to do also.
I wonder if God has any unfinished projects. Does that list include me? In a sense, we are all works in progress. No matter how hard we try, we will never be perfect. But that doesn’t mean we should give up on ourselves. God doesn’t. He is always working to mold our character and make us more like Christ.
His Word offers plenty of encouragement to remember on our journey of faith.
Here are a few of my favorites: “…God who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on that day when Christ Jesus comes back again.” Philippians 1:6 (NLT) “Don’t get tired of doing what is good. Don’t get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time.” Galatians 6:9 (NLT) (This one was posted on my refrigerator all during my children’s “growing up” years). “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT) I often write this verse on a card to encourage someone whose future is uncertain.
So we keep picking up sticks, raising our families, and doing what God has called us to do, because we know someday our life here will be finished and we will be a new creation, complete in Him.
Note: Marilyn also shares her gift of writing through "Marilyn's Meanderings" at the link below:
www.marilynelveranaseth.wordpress.com/2011/05/24/unfinished-projects/
Many of us have unfinished hobby projects—things we either lose interest in, or are too busy to complete. Someday we’ll get back to them, maybe.
Last month I made a list of unfinished projects from the remodeling we started two summers ago. The list is comprised of mostly small items that could easily be forgotten about, or put off indefinitely. My husband started working on that list again and he lets me cross them off as they’re completed. I try to strike a balance between too pushy about it, or too lax. Some of the items on the list are tasks for me to do also.
I wonder if God has any unfinished projects. Does that list include me? In a sense, we are all works in progress. No matter how hard we try, we will never be perfect. But that doesn’t mean we should give up on ourselves. God doesn’t. He is always working to mold our character and make us more like Christ.
His Word offers plenty of encouragement to remember on our journey of faith.
Here are a few of my favorites: “…God who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on that day when Christ Jesus comes back again.” Philippians 1:6 (NLT) “Don’t get tired of doing what is good. Don’t get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time.” Galatians 6:9 (NLT) (This one was posted on my refrigerator all during my children’s “growing up” years). “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT) I often write this verse on a card to encourage someone whose future is uncertain.
So we keep picking up sticks, raising our families, and doing what God has called us to do, because we know someday our life here will be finished and we will be a new creation, complete in Him.
Note: Marilyn also shares her gift of writing through "Marilyn's Meanderings" at the link below:
www.marilynelveranaseth.wordpress.com/2011/05/24/unfinished-projects/
Freedom!
Devotional by Michelle Aandahl
WMCLB Pacific-North President
July 2011
Our recent trip into New York City included many sightseeing stops, including Liberty Island and Ellis Island. It was while on Ellis Island, roaming through the building where thousands upon thousands of immigrants passed, that I greatly realized how much I take for granted as a citizen of these United States of America.
I have lived in the lovely Pacific Northwest, specifically the Puget Sound area of Washington state, my entire life. Unlike those who had to find a way to gain entry and citizenship into the USA (like my ancestors from Norway, Ireland, Germany and England), I personally did nothing to deserve my citizenship...other than being born.
I also have done very little to maintain my freedom as a citizen of the US. My freedoms were won by others throughout history, and are guaranteed by the Constitution and Bill of Rights; I enjoy benefits fought for by people who were impassioned and brave, willing to pay a price for future generations. Because of these freedoms, I get to vote, speak freely, worship freely and "pursue happiness."
I am thankful, grateful beyond words.
But you know, I enjoy even greater freedom than that, because I am a daughter of the King! I did nothing to deserve this, either. It was all God's doing...He provided a way for me to be forgiven: He sent His Son, Jesus, to be the perfect sacrifice to atone for MY sins. And this was a free gift; I could not buy it or earn it. It was given to me....and I received it! It is by God's grace that I am born again....a new creature...not by my own efforts but by His provision. I am daily sanctified through His grace (because let's face it, we still have that sinful nature!). No longer enslaved to sin, but instead filled with great hope! Praise God, I get to talk about this and worship Him freely, and pursue the happiness of being His and sharing His love with others who need to know Him.
John 8:35, 36 "Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."
Now go enjoy your freedom!
I have lived in the lovely Pacific Northwest, specifically the Puget Sound area of Washington state, my entire life. Unlike those who had to find a way to gain entry and citizenship into the USA (like my ancestors from Norway, Ireland, Germany and England), I personally did nothing to deserve my citizenship...other than being born.
I also have done very little to maintain my freedom as a citizen of the US. My freedoms were won by others throughout history, and are guaranteed by the Constitution and Bill of Rights; I enjoy benefits fought for by people who were impassioned and brave, willing to pay a price for future generations. Because of these freedoms, I get to vote, speak freely, worship freely and "pursue happiness."
I am thankful, grateful beyond words.
But you know, I enjoy even greater freedom than that, because I am a daughter of the King! I did nothing to deserve this, either. It was all God's doing...He provided a way for me to be forgiven: He sent His Son, Jesus, to be the perfect sacrifice to atone for MY sins. And this was a free gift; I could not buy it or earn it. It was given to me....and I received it! It is by God's grace that I am born again....a new creature...not by my own efforts but by His provision. I am daily sanctified through His grace (because let's face it, we still have that sinful nature!). No longer enslaved to sin, but instead filled with great hope! Praise God, I get to talk about this and worship Him freely, and pursue the happiness of being His and sharing His love with others who need to know Him.
John 8:35, 36 "Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."
Now go enjoy your freedom!
Father's Day
by Sue Patterson, WMCLB Central Region President
June 2011
Whenever June rolls around, we think of Flag Day, first day of summer and Father’s Day. Some of us are fortunate to still have an earthly father and some of us have had to see ours leave this world. One of the members of our National Team lost her father last winter, and it affected us all. He was a great person and most of us knew him. I was fortunate to have him as an instructor at Hillcrest. His name is Pastor Lloyd Bjornlie! Getting to know him as a person, teacher, and mentor was a real blessing to me. He will be greatly missed by many.
My Dad was very special to me, too. He was a wonderful Godly man with a wonderful sense of humor and a love for everyone. He used to call me up just to ask how my kids were doing or if there were grapes on the vines or how the hog market was doing. I really miss that.
One of the greatest blessings that came from having him as my Dad is that he was the one who helped me to become a child of God! We had been having special meetings at our church and the one night the Pastor was preaching about running the race from Hebrews 12. His question was if we were running IN that race toward the goal of heaven or if we were just a spectator. I was very troubled that night and had asked my parents for forgiveness for something that took place that day, but I still wasn’t feeling any better. When I came down from my bedroom again, my Dad later told my Mom that he knew what was bothering me. A verse that really has meant a lot to me since that night is found in I John 1:9, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” My Dad’s favorite verse was Psalm 19:14 (easy reference to remember as he was born in 1914) "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer.”
I found this poem on the internet that helps us all to think about and appreciate our Christian earthly fathers:
Life Lessons
You may have thought I didn’t see,
Or that I hadn’t heard.
Life lessons that you taught to me,
But I got every word.
Perhaps you thought I missed it all,
And that we’d grow apart,
But Dad, I picked up everything,
It’s written on my heart.
Without you, Dad, I wouldn’t be,
The woman I am today;
You build a strong foundation
No one can take away.
I’ve grown up with your values,
And I’m very glad I did;
So here’s to you, dear father,
From your forever grateful Kid.
Copyright 2007 by Joanna Fuchs
http://www.poemsource.com
How very grateful I am that I also have a Heavenly Father who will never leave me or forsake me. He loved us so much that He came up with a plan to make it possible for all of us to be forgiven of our sins and receive an eternal home in heaven with Him.
As we celebrated the Easter season, at our Good Friday service, our Pastor shared the horrific story about what happened to our precious Lord and Savior on that awful day, how He was turned over to the angry crowd, beaten, mocked, spit upon, nailed to that ugly cross, given vinegar to help quench His thirst, shed His blood and died alone on that cross so that we can have forgiveness from all our sins.
The lyrics to a wonderful song written by Stuart Townsend say it so well:
How deep the Father’s love for us
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only son
And make a wretch His treasure.
How great the pain of searing loss
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the chosen One
Bring many sons to glory.
Behold the man upon the cross
My sin upon His shoulders
Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers.
It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished.
His dying breath has brought me life,
I know that it is finished.
I will not boast in anything
No gifts, no power, no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrection.
Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom.
My Dad was very special to me, too. He was a wonderful Godly man with a wonderful sense of humor and a love for everyone. He used to call me up just to ask how my kids were doing or if there were grapes on the vines or how the hog market was doing. I really miss that.
One of the greatest blessings that came from having him as my Dad is that he was the one who helped me to become a child of God! We had been having special meetings at our church and the one night the Pastor was preaching about running the race from Hebrews 12. His question was if we were running IN that race toward the goal of heaven or if we were just a spectator. I was very troubled that night and had asked my parents for forgiveness for something that took place that day, but I still wasn’t feeling any better. When I came down from my bedroom again, my Dad later told my Mom that he knew what was bothering me. A verse that really has meant a lot to me since that night is found in I John 1:9, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” My Dad’s favorite verse was Psalm 19:14 (easy reference to remember as he was born in 1914) "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer.”
I found this poem on the internet that helps us all to think about and appreciate our Christian earthly fathers:
Life Lessons
You may have thought I didn’t see,
Or that I hadn’t heard.
Life lessons that you taught to me,
But I got every word.
Perhaps you thought I missed it all,
And that we’d grow apart,
But Dad, I picked up everything,
It’s written on my heart.
Without you, Dad, I wouldn’t be,
The woman I am today;
You build a strong foundation
No one can take away.
I’ve grown up with your values,
And I’m very glad I did;
So here’s to you, dear father,
From your forever grateful Kid.
Copyright 2007 by Joanna Fuchs
http://www.poemsource.com
How very grateful I am that I also have a Heavenly Father who will never leave me or forsake me. He loved us so much that He came up with a plan to make it possible for all of us to be forgiven of our sins and receive an eternal home in heaven with Him.
As we celebrated the Easter season, at our Good Friday service, our Pastor shared the horrific story about what happened to our precious Lord and Savior on that awful day, how He was turned over to the angry crowd, beaten, mocked, spit upon, nailed to that ugly cross, given vinegar to help quench His thirst, shed His blood and died alone on that cross so that we can have forgiveness from all our sins.
The lyrics to a wonderful song written by Stuart Townsend say it so well:
How deep the Father’s love for us
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only son
And make a wretch His treasure.
How great the pain of searing loss
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the chosen One
Bring many sons to glory.
Behold the man upon the cross
My sin upon His shoulders
Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers.
It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished.
His dying breath has brought me life,
I know that it is finished.
I will not boast in anything
No gifts, no power, no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrection.
Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom.
What do you need today?
by Lori Christopherson, WMCLB Treasurer
April/May 2011
As I contemplated this month’s devotional
I tried to put myself into the lives of those around me. There are many
different life issues that are a part of our daily living. Where one person
needs to know that God loves them, one person may need confidence in daily
provision. Another person may be weary and need rest in Him. Some of us just
need to focus on praise and thanksgiving for what he has done for us.
I have a sun spot in my backyard where I go and sit and spend time with God and get fresh air. In February when it was still quite cool about 29 degrees I took a sweatshirt and blanket with me and God still blessed me with a few minutes of sunshine. I was able to reflect on how He had carried me through some health issues and He also gave endurance for the tasks that were needed to get done that day. One of the most important things I find in Christian life is the Word of God. Through his Word we are given life, direction, confidence and peace. I read His Word and then I take the time to let Him speak to me.
My backyard garden is experiencing spring resurrection. I can daily see the new life coming back. For those who are experiencing difficulty, spending time with God alone can be really tough, since alone is all we have. I would like to share an excerpt from “On our Father’s knee by Fredrik Wisloff, a book I have been reading that was given to me by a friend.
“Open Your Window”
Daniel 6:10 NIV: Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.
You are in need of fresh air! Open your windows!
In times of tribulation many people keep their troubles to themselves, and there, in an isolation of their own, they consider all their difficulties. In this way their burdens grow still greater, and the air in their enclosure becomes unhealthy and heavy.”
The body of Christ is unique when functioning properly. As we individually spend time with God for our individual needs we also share in one another’s lives. Through prayer we lift our souls and souls of our brothers and sisters. As we are weak the body supports us and thus when we are renewed in strength, we support the body once again.
Sometimes our difficulties get us down and we close off. But open your windows! Get some fresh air, so your joy and health can be restored.
I have a sun spot in my backyard where I go and sit and spend time with God and get fresh air. In February when it was still quite cool about 29 degrees I took a sweatshirt and blanket with me and God still blessed me with a few minutes of sunshine. I was able to reflect on how He had carried me through some health issues and He also gave endurance for the tasks that were needed to get done that day. One of the most important things I find in Christian life is the Word of God. Through his Word we are given life, direction, confidence and peace. I read His Word and then I take the time to let Him speak to me.
My backyard garden is experiencing spring resurrection. I can daily see the new life coming back. For those who are experiencing difficulty, spending time with God alone can be really tough, since alone is all we have. I would like to share an excerpt from “On our Father’s knee by Fredrik Wisloff, a book I have been reading that was given to me by a friend.
“Open Your Window”
Daniel 6:10 NIV: Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.
You are in need of fresh air! Open your windows!
In times of tribulation many people keep their troubles to themselves, and there, in an isolation of their own, they consider all their difficulties. In this way their burdens grow still greater, and the air in their enclosure becomes unhealthy and heavy.”
The body of Christ is unique when functioning properly. As we individually spend time with God for our individual needs we also share in one another’s lives. Through prayer we lift our souls and souls of our brothers and sisters. As we are weak the body supports us and thus when we are renewed in strength, we support the body once again.
Sometimes our difficulties get us down and we close off. But open your windows! Get some fresh air, so your joy and health can be restored.
"Roses"
by Cheryl Olsen, WMCLB Secretary
March 2011
I love the flower beds of the home that we rent near Seattle, Everett, Washington. It’s great to watch the various perennials bloom and to enjoy what the owners have planted over the years.
One day last month, the owner came by and asked about our plans for the front flower bed – and if we were planning to remove the rose bushes from that bed. I was a bit surprised, and said, “Well, no! I like roses!” He responded, “Well, they’ll need to be pruned, then, or they won’t do very well.”
Now, I’ve had gardens in Wisconsin, New York, and Minnesota – and never had to do any gardening in February!! The ground was often still covered with snow – sometimes feet of it! It never occurred to me that I might need to think about gardening that early!
So I responded, “Well, I’ve never had roses before – can you show me how to do it?” So, for the next hour, I watched a Master Gardener – a Sculptor of Stems – a lover of the soil – at work, enjoying sharing his passion with me.
We went to one last plant that I thought was doing very well. It was nice and bushy. But my gardener friend said, “Oh, this one needs a lot of work!” He explained to me that we needed to trim back many of the stems in the center, or the sun would never reach the inside of the bush. It might produce many leaves, but not many roses.
His comment immediately reminded me of the Master Gardener of our souls, who prunes us, as well. We may think our “nice and bushy” full lives are just fine. But He wants to trim the excess so the Son can touch the center of our lives. Then He will be able to produce fragrant blossoms in us!
One day last month, the owner came by and asked about our plans for the front flower bed – and if we were planning to remove the rose bushes from that bed. I was a bit surprised, and said, “Well, no! I like roses!” He responded, “Well, they’ll need to be pruned, then, or they won’t do very well.”
Now, I’ve had gardens in Wisconsin, New York, and Minnesota – and never had to do any gardening in February!! The ground was often still covered with snow – sometimes feet of it! It never occurred to me that I might need to think about gardening that early!
So I responded, “Well, I’ve never had roses before – can you show me how to do it?” So, for the next hour, I watched a Master Gardener – a Sculptor of Stems – a lover of the soil – at work, enjoying sharing his passion with me.
We went to one last plant that I thought was doing very well. It was nice and bushy. But my gardener friend said, “Oh, this one needs a lot of work!” He explained to me that we needed to trim back many of the stems in the center, or the sun would never reach the inside of the bush. It might produce many leaves, but not many roses.
His comment immediately reminded me of the Master Gardener of our souls, who prunes us, as well. We may think our “nice and bushy” full lives are just fine. But He wants to trim the excess so the Son can touch the center of our lives. Then He will be able to produce fragrant blossoms in us!
"I love...."
by Michelle Aandahl, WMCLB Pacific-North Regional President
February 2011
Recently I was scanning through a book that was sitting on a new friend's coffee table, and I noticed this phrase in the book cover artwork: I love Jesus....and French fries! It was, of course, meant to be tongue-in-cheek, but it did make me think about the way we use words. "I sure do love your new hairdo"....."I love the smell of fresh laundry!"...."I love bubble baths!"...."I love pink roses!" (often said by me)....or even "Don't you just love it when everyone and everything around you goes crazy?"
In our daily conversations, the meaning of the simple, four-letter word LOVE carries multiple strengths of intensity. But when I look at the way God loves us, I see a beautiful, unending passion for His people that is at once comforting, tender, intense and exciting! He desires for us to love Him AND to imitate His lovingkindness in the way we relate to other people.
"...with everlasting lovingkindness I will have compassion on you," says the LORD your Redeemer. (Isaiah 54:8b) God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (John 5:8) Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8a) Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God....In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. (1 John 5:7, 10)
Lord, help me daily to understand how much You love me. Give me Your compassion and lovingkindness as I interact with others. Cause me to love well; just as Your love runs deep, so must mine.
In the end, hairdo's grow out, fresh laundry gets dirty again, our bubbles burst, and roses fade, but the love of the LORD never ceases. I am so thankful that Jesus loves me. All the time. Unfadingly. Indescribably. Forever and ever. Amen!
In our daily conversations, the meaning of the simple, four-letter word LOVE carries multiple strengths of intensity. But when I look at the way God loves us, I see a beautiful, unending passion for His people that is at once comforting, tender, intense and exciting! He desires for us to love Him AND to imitate His lovingkindness in the way we relate to other people.
"...with everlasting lovingkindness I will have compassion on you," says the LORD your Redeemer. (Isaiah 54:8b) God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (John 5:8) Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8a) Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God....In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. (1 John 5:7, 10)
Lord, help me daily to understand how much You love me. Give me Your compassion and lovingkindness as I interact with others. Cause me to love well; just as Your love runs deep, so must mine.
In the end, hairdo's grow out, fresh laundry gets dirty again, our bubbles burst, and roses fade, but the love of the LORD never ceases. I am so thankful that Jesus loves me. All the time. Unfadingly. Indescribably. Forever and ever. Amen!
"The Goodness of God"
by Lisa Salvesen, WMCLB Western President
January 2011
It is the goodness of God that leads people to repent.
Romans 2:4 says “Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?”
Romans 2:13&14 says “For merely listening to the law doesn’t make us right with God. It is obeying the law that makes us right in his sight. Even Gentiles, who do not have God’s written law, show that they know his law when they instinctively obey it, even without having heard it. They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right.”
We Christians carry the good news of the kingdom within us. Through the Holy Spirit, we can be an agent of change for people. To solve problems, you have to bring God into it. When we see a problem, stop and pray for the person or situation. God wants to bless people. We can ask, “Do you have a need or is there some area in your life where you need a blessing?” Everyone falls into this category. Jesus didn’t only focus on people’s sin. He pointed out a solution, the good news of his kingdom. Most people already know they are messed up and have sinned. Jesus kept lifting them up with reminders of, love, hope, I have good news. We can speak affirming words into their lives.
Psalm 8 says: 1 O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Your glory is higher than the heavens.
2You have taught children and infants
to tell of your strength, silencing your enemies and all who oppose you.
3 When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers-
the moon and the stars you set in place-
4 what are mere mortals that you should think about them,
human beings that you should care for them?
5 Yet you made them only a little lower than the angels
and crowned them with glory and honor.
6 You gave them charge of everything you made,
putting all things under their authority-
7 the flocks and the herds
and all the wild animals,
8 the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,
and everything that swims the ocean currents.
9 Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
God wants an invitation into someone's life even more than you do.
Are you seen as the blessing at work or not?
Romans 2:4 says “Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?”
Romans 2:13&14 says “For merely listening to the law doesn’t make us right with God. It is obeying the law that makes us right in his sight. Even Gentiles, who do not have God’s written law, show that they know his law when they instinctively obey it, even without having heard it. They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right.”
We Christians carry the good news of the kingdom within us. Through the Holy Spirit, we can be an agent of change for people. To solve problems, you have to bring God into it. When we see a problem, stop and pray for the person or situation. God wants to bless people. We can ask, “Do you have a need or is there some area in your life where you need a blessing?” Everyone falls into this category. Jesus didn’t only focus on people’s sin. He pointed out a solution, the good news of his kingdom. Most people already know they are messed up and have sinned. Jesus kept lifting them up with reminders of, love, hope, I have good news. We can speak affirming words into their lives.
Psalm 8 says: 1 O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Your glory is higher than the heavens.
2You have taught children and infants
to tell of your strength, silencing your enemies and all who oppose you.
3 When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers-
the moon and the stars you set in place-
4 what are mere mortals that you should think about them,
human beings that you should care for them?
5 Yet you made them only a little lower than the angels
and crowned them with glory and honor.
6 You gave them charge of everything you made,
putting all things under their authority-
7 the flocks and the herds
and all the wild animals,
8 the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,
and everything that swims the ocean currents.
9 Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
God wants an invitation into someone's life even more than you do.
Are you seen as the blessing at work or not?
"What is the Gift?"
by Chloe Koslowsky, Pacific-South President
December 2010
2010 is our first Christmas without Father Joseph. For many years I have smiled each Christmas as I recall one of my favorite memories of my very curious father. It was late at night when I came down the hallway and realized there was activity in the living-room under the Christmas tree. To my surprise, it was father and he was literally on his tummy on the floor poking, prodding, and squeezing the gift that Janelle and I had purchased that day for our parents and wrapped best we could. Well, I could not contain my amazement and demanded an explanation for such behavior. His response was merely, “Well, it has such an unusual shape and my curiosity overtook me!”
Haven’t we all, at one time or another, been inquisitive or eager to know, what is the gift? Christmas 1965 I was more than eager to open a small package that to my delight was an engagement ring from Gary. That gift brought me a new name, a new home, a new future, and even children. My life would never be the same and it continues to change.
Do you have any eagerness this Christmas? What is “The Gift” you will open this December? God has given us His only begotten Son (John 3:16). Romans 8:32 says that He spared not His own Son. Thank God Jesus was born. But He was born to die and live again, that we might have life! Jesus is the Gift – the ultimate gift of life eternal. “…The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23. Let us truly experience Him this Christmas. Could there be a greater joy than to share Jesus with someone who has never been given “The Gift!”
Haven’t we all, at one time or another, been inquisitive or eager to know, what is the gift? Christmas 1965 I was more than eager to open a small package that to my delight was an engagement ring from Gary. That gift brought me a new name, a new home, a new future, and even children. My life would never be the same and it continues to change.
Do you have any eagerness this Christmas? What is “The Gift” you will open this December? God has given us His only begotten Son (John 3:16). Romans 8:32 says that He spared not His own Son. Thank God Jesus was born. But He was born to die and live again, that we might have life! Jesus is the Gift – the ultimate gift of life eternal. “…The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23. Let us truly experience Him this Christmas. Could there be a greater joy than to share Jesus with someone who has never been given “The Gift!”
Where did October go?
by Lori Christopherson, WMCLB Treasurer
November 2010
Where did October disappear to?
November begins and as I look forward to this month I look at the opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving together with family and friends.
As a Christian this thought of thanksgiving is in our prayer every day. The thanks and praise that we give to our Savior for what he has provided for us in his death and resurrection.For the protection and provision that has been experienced each day, whether in the storm, through a storm or experiencing the rest that comes as he takes us past life’s storms.
I Thessalonians 5:11-18
Verse 16-18 are a reminder to …Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Isn’t it interesting just before this Paul is talking about being an encourager. Does being an encourager provide a more thankful heart?
Verse 11-15 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.
At my oldest son and daughter-in-law’s church they experienced AWKWARD SUNDAY. As they entered the parking lot there were no attendants, there were no greeters, no bulletin, there were no chairs set up, no worship leader – and the sermon was on serving.
Wow, do we encourage our brothers and sisters who work hard among us? If we did would we be more grateful for what they do to help us come together and worship our Lord? October was Pastor appreciation month. Did you thank him or even encourage him?
So……This November let us try not only to be thankful but also to encourage one another!
Here are some examples of how to encourage those in your church family:
5:11 Build each other up. – Point out to someone a quality you appreciate in him or her.
5:12 Respect leaders – Look for ways to cooperate.
5:13 Hold leaders in highest regard – Hold back your next critical comment about those in positions of responsibility. Say “Thank you” to your leaders for their efforts.
5:14 Warn the idle - Challenge someone to join you in a project or ministry
5:14 Help the weak - support those who are weak by loving them and praying for them.
5:18 Give thanks – Make a list of all the gifts God has given you, giving thanks to God for each one.
Now make an effort to this outside the church!
November begins and as I look forward to this month I look at the opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving together with family and friends.
As a Christian this thought of thanksgiving is in our prayer every day. The thanks and praise that we give to our Savior for what he has provided for us in his death and resurrection.For the protection and provision that has been experienced each day, whether in the storm, through a storm or experiencing the rest that comes as he takes us past life’s storms.
I Thessalonians 5:11-18
Verse 16-18 are a reminder to …Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Isn’t it interesting just before this Paul is talking about being an encourager. Does being an encourager provide a more thankful heart?
Verse 11-15 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.
At my oldest son and daughter-in-law’s church they experienced AWKWARD SUNDAY. As they entered the parking lot there were no attendants, there were no greeters, no bulletin, there were no chairs set up, no worship leader – and the sermon was on serving.
Wow, do we encourage our brothers and sisters who work hard among us? If we did would we be more grateful for what they do to help us come together and worship our Lord? October was Pastor appreciation month. Did you thank him or even encourage him?
So……This November let us try not only to be thankful but also to encourage one another!
Here are some examples of how to encourage those in your church family:
5:11 Build each other up. – Point out to someone a quality you appreciate in him or her.
5:12 Respect leaders – Look for ways to cooperate.
5:13 Hold leaders in highest regard – Hold back your next critical comment about those in positions of responsibility. Say “Thank you” to your leaders for their efforts.
5:14 Warn the idle - Challenge someone to join you in a project or ministry
5:14 Help the weak - support those who are weak by loving them and praying for them.
5:18 Give thanks – Make a list of all the gifts God has given you, giving thanks to God for each one.
Now make an effort to this outside the church!
"His Promise"
by Lisa Gundersen Salvesen, Western District President
October 2010
Psalm 121
1 I look up to the mountains--
Does my help come from there?
2 My help comes from the LORD,
who made heaven and earth!
3 He will not let you stumble;
the one who watches over you will not slumber.
4 Indeed, he who watches over Israel
never slumbers or sleeps.
5 The LORD himself watches over you!
The LORD stands beside you as your protective shade.
6 The sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon at night.
7 The LORD keeps you from all harm
and watches over your life.
8 The LORD keeps watch over you as you come and go,
both now and forever.
My grandpa, Pastor Joseph Aarhus, used to pray these verses over us before we would drive home after a visit with grandma and him. He’s been gone almost 16 years now, but these words remain true. What a promise.
We don’t have mountains here in North Dakota, but I have seen them before in my travels. They are vast, powerful, even dangerous at times. So is life. We weren’t made to go through life alone. We all will have troubles in this world, but God promises to lead and protect us through life, if we allow. Speak these words over your life and the lives of your kids. Claim his promises for the generations to come.
Amen.
1 I look up to the mountains--
Does my help come from there?
2 My help comes from the LORD,
who made heaven and earth!
3 He will not let you stumble;
the one who watches over you will not slumber.
4 Indeed, he who watches over Israel
never slumbers or sleeps.
5 The LORD himself watches over you!
The LORD stands beside you as your protective shade.
6 The sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon at night.
7 The LORD keeps you from all harm
and watches over your life.
8 The LORD keeps watch over you as you come and go,
both now and forever.
My grandpa, Pastor Joseph Aarhus, used to pray these verses over us before we would drive home after a visit with grandma and him. He’s been gone almost 16 years now, but these words remain true. What a promise.
We don’t have mountains here in North Dakota, but I have seen them before in my travels. They are vast, powerful, even dangerous at times. So is life. We weren’t made to go through life alone. We all will have troubles in this world, but God promises to lead and protect us through life, if we allow. Speak these words over your life and the lives of your kids. Claim his promises for the generations to come.
Amen.
"Hang On!"
by Michelle Aandahl, Pacific Northwest President
September 2010
It looks like hurricane season is already upon us. I don't typically give this much thought as we don't have hurricanes in the PNW (rain, yes, but nothing of this magnitude!) But as I watched the newscaster on our local NBC station explain where the current tropical storms are located, my mind wandered off to a dream that a friend of mine had many years ago.
It seems that she and another person were walking along a crowded beach, enjoying conversation. The day was beautiful and the view of the waves hitting the rocky coastline was breathtaking.
Suddenly, she noticed a tidal wave headed straight for the beach! She cried out to everyone nearby that they needed to run for higher ground, but no one seemed to hear. To her horror, she realized that there was nowhere for her to go but to a grouping of large, craggy rocks along the coastline of the beach; as she grasped onto a sharp edged rock, she hollered to her companion to grab onto a rock and hang on! As the huge, powerful wave hit, she could see her friend floundering, trying to hang on to a slippery rock, then she could no longer see or hear anything as she was covered by the wave, and hung on tightly....
Once the waves subsided, my friend looked around and realized she was the only person who was not washed away into the turbulent ocean. She looked at her hands and saw they were cut, bruised and bleeding, but she was still alive. The violence of the wave had battered her body, but because she had a firm grip on the craggy rock, she survived.
............................................................................................. Storms have and will continue to hit us in this earthly life, no question about it. The real question is this: What will you do when they come? Will you seek the counsel of famous people who talk as if they have all the answers to life’s troubles? Will you run to your friends or family? That could lead you down some pretty slippery slopes. Or....will you run to The Rock and hang on?
Scripture tells us that we can expect trials and tribulations. We’ve been warned so we can prepare. Grab hold of the Lord, leaning on Him for help, and see how He will direct you, sustain you, and care for you.
John 16:33b "In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world."
James 1:2 "Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance."
Written by a woman who has endured a few storms already....
Michelle Aandahl
PNW District WM President
It seems that she and another person were walking along a crowded beach, enjoying conversation. The day was beautiful and the view of the waves hitting the rocky coastline was breathtaking.
Suddenly, she noticed a tidal wave headed straight for the beach! She cried out to everyone nearby that they needed to run for higher ground, but no one seemed to hear. To her horror, she realized that there was nowhere for her to go but to a grouping of large, craggy rocks along the coastline of the beach; as she grasped onto a sharp edged rock, she hollered to her companion to grab onto a rock and hang on! As the huge, powerful wave hit, she could see her friend floundering, trying to hang on to a slippery rock, then she could no longer see or hear anything as she was covered by the wave, and hung on tightly....
Once the waves subsided, my friend looked around and realized she was the only person who was not washed away into the turbulent ocean. She looked at her hands and saw they were cut, bruised and bleeding, but she was still alive. The violence of the wave had battered her body, but because she had a firm grip on the craggy rock, she survived.
............................................................................................. Storms have and will continue to hit us in this earthly life, no question about it. The real question is this: What will you do when they come? Will you seek the counsel of famous people who talk as if they have all the answers to life’s troubles? Will you run to your friends or family? That could lead you down some pretty slippery slopes. Or....will you run to The Rock and hang on?
Scripture tells us that we can expect trials and tribulations. We’ve been warned so we can prepare. Grab hold of the Lord, leaning on Him for help, and see how He will direct you, sustain you, and care for you.
John 16:33b "In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world."
James 1:2 "Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance."
Written by a woman who has endured a few storms already....
Michelle Aandahl
PNW District WM President
"The Guardian of My Soul"
by Janet Spencer, WMCLB Chairman
July-August 2010
As I think of being my disabled adult child’s guardian, it is my responsibility to use my abilities and strengths to advocate for him because of his weaknesses. Is it any different with God as our guardian-the Guardian of our soul? Within the past few months in my own life there have been multiple situations that have stretched me beyond my own strength and reason– that’s a good thing from God’s perspective! During that time I experienced the keeping power of God’s name. In John 17:11, "I am no longer in the world; and yet they themselves are in the world, and I come to You. Holy Father, keep them in Your name, the name which You have given Me, that they may be one even as We are. “
In our Bible Study each Wednesday morning, we have been studying names and attributes of God according to the alphabet - one for each letter of the alphabet. The study is based on Debbie Williams’ book Pray with Purpose, Live with Passion. As the weeks went by, my thoughts were drawn to the name of God, the Guardian of my soul. It was a comforting thought as I remembered from I Peter 2:25 that God is my Shepherd and the Guardian of my soul. God watches over each of us, his sheep, to see that things are done rightly. He protects our path - going before us, but also behind us. He guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. These were some of the thoughts that were flooding my head, keeping me by the power of His name and His Word.
Isaiah 33:6 tells us that God is the stability of our times -whatever those times bring. Oh, how I needed firm footing.
Isaiah 28:16 says that as we believe in the cornerstone of our faith, Jesus Christ, we will not be disturbed. Oh, how I needed to trust in someone else to keep me undisturbed.
As I laid down my concerns before his throne, he granted me by His grace the peace of God to guard my heart and mind in Jesus Christ.
The intensity of God stretching me has passed. During that time He gave me the peace of God that surpassed my understanding. It was an incredible place of resting in the strength and wisdom of the Guardian of my soul.
Have you ever experienced God as the guardian of your soul? Advocating for you in your weakness? Keeping you by the power of His name?
In our Bible Study each Wednesday morning, we have been studying names and attributes of God according to the alphabet - one for each letter of the alphabet. The study is based on Debbie Williams’ book Pray with Purpose, Live with Passion. As the weeks went by, my thoughts were drawn to the name of God, the Guardian of my soul. It was a comforting thought as I remembered from I Peter 2:25 that God is my Shepherd and the Guardian of my soul. God watches over each of us, his sheep, to see that things are done rightly. He protects our path - going before us, but also behind us. He guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. These were some of the thoughts that were flooding my head, keeping me by the power of His name and His Word.
Isaiah 33:6 tells us that God is the stability of our times -whatever those times bring. Oh, how I needed firm footing.
Isaiah 28:16 says that as we believe in the cornerstone of our faith, Jesus Christ, we will not be disturbed. Oh, how I needed to trust in someone else to keep me undisturbed.
As I laid down my concerns before his throne, he granted me by His grace the peace of God to guard my heart and mind in Jesus Christ.
The intensity of God stretching me has passed. During that time He gave me the peace of God that surpassed my understanding. It was an incredible place of resting in the strength and wisdom of the Guardian of my soul.
Have you ever experienced God as the guardian of your soul? Advocating for you in your weakness? Keeping you by the power of His name?
"Smile at the Storm"
by Janet Thomson, Canadian Representative
June 2010
Quite a few years ago, while driving to Fergus for an annual meeting, we ran into some really bad weather. One of the women in the car started to sing. "With Jesus in the boat we can smile at the storm."
We all had a little laugh and felt more at ease as we drove. As the different types of "storms" come my way I still hear that song in my head and can feel the presence of God walking beside me, and yes, feel a little more at ease knowing he is in control, not me. It's quite interesting what God uses sometimes to let us know He is there.
I hope when you are in a "storm" you too can hum along...With Jesus in the boat you can smile at the storm! What a wonderful God we serve!
We all had a little laugh and felt more at ease as we drove. As the different types of "storms" come my way I still hear that song in my head and can feel the presence of God walking beside me, and yes, feel a little more at ease knowing he is in control, not me. It's quite interesting what God uses sometimes to let us know He is there.
I hope when you are in a "storm" you too can hum along...With Jesus in the boat you can smile at the storm! What a wonderful God we serve!
"Touch"
by Cheryl Olsen, WMCLB Secretary
May 2010
I am staring out the window at the amazing evergreens of my new home in the state of Washington. Every towering spire points upwards, each of them unique in shape. Silhouetted against the white billowy clouds and patches of blue, my mind can’t help but drift upwards as well, in praise of the God who spoke them into existence.
Then my mind travels back to the Bible spread out in front of me, and I began to notice the very personal words in the Gospel of Matthew where I am reading. Jesus “came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her…” “…he stretched out his hand and touched him and said, ‘I will; be clean.” He didn’t have to touch these people who were sick and leprous. But he did.
The Word, who had spoken the universe into existence, became one of us, and became personally involved with us, that small segment of his creation. In fact, he became so identified with us, that he allowed himself to become emotionally involved. “Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand and touched him…” Reading further, I find that the word that is used is the same word root that Luke uses of Jesus, as he sees a widow in the funeral procession of her only son: “when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her and said to her, ‘Do not weep.’” and he raised her son from the dead! The word translated “moved with pity” and “having compassion” is from splagchnizomai – my study Bible says, “literally ‘his gut moved.’”
Doesn’t that make you amazed? The Creator of millions of stars, plant species, and animals of all sorts allows himself to have his gut wrenched by empathy for a woman who has lost her son, for a man who has an incurable disease. And he touches their lives, and they are never the same.
And he wants to touch our lives too.
Then my mind travels back to the Bible spread out in front of me, and I began to notice the very personal words in the Gospel of Matthew where I am reading. Jesus “came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her…” “…he stretched out his hand and touched him and said, ‘I will; be clean.” He didn’t have to touch these people who were sick and leprous. But he did.
The Word, who had spoken the universe into existence, became one of us, and became personally involved with us, that small segment of his creation. In fact, he became so identified with us, that he allowed himself to become emotionally involved. “Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand and touched him…” Reading further, I find that the word that is used is the same word root that Luke uses of Jesus, as he sees a widow in the funeral procession of her only son: “when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her and said to her, ‘Do not weep.’” and he raised her son from the dead! The word translated “moved with pity” and “having compassion” is from splagchnizomai – my study Bible says, “literally ‘his gut moved.’”
Doesn’t that make you amazed? The Creator of millions of stars, plant species, and animals of all sorts allows himself to have his gut wrenched by empathy for a woman who has lost her son, for a man who has an incurable disease. And he touches their lives, and they are never the same.
And he wants to touch our lives too.
"Hope"
by Sue Patterson, Central District President
April 2010
Spring is such a wonderful season. Everything seems to come back to life. The flowers start to peek their heads thru the soil, the leaves begin to bud on the trees, and the birds begin singing like a choir again. Everything gets a new fresh look as the warm spring rains come to clean up all the winter debris that is left behind. As I look around now, I see the mountains of snow gradually sinking into puddles. Soon our little corner of Northeast Iowa will be painted by God with all sorts of beautiful colors. We HOPE this happens soon!
HOPE is a mighty big word. When we are young, we hope we will have friends when we get to school, we hope we will get good grades so we can make it to college. We hope we find a good job after we graduate, we hope to find a loving mate and have wonderful children. Sometimes what we hope for doesn’t always come out the way we have planned. At our Lenten services this year, Pastor Nessa has been using the word HOPE for our theme. In a devotional booklet that we have, there is a good description of what HOPE is: “Hope, in biblical sense, means certainty and assurance. It is the firm, unshakable, indomitable belief that we will be raised from the dead (as Jesus was) and will be welcomed into our eternal home. That’s enough to put joy in our heart and a spring in our step. “(David Roper) Another definition in the back of my Life Application Bible states, “Hope: confident trust with the expectation of fulfillment."
We can always count on God when it comes to HOPE!! When we put our trust in those around us, we may have many moments of disappointment. God has given us so many promises and we can know that He will fulfill those promises. In Romans 15:13 we read: “So I pray that God, who gives you hope, will keep you happy and full of peace as you believe in Him. May you overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” (New Living Translation)
I receive such a blessing from the words to one of our favorite songs. In the song “The Solid Rock” the second word in the first verse is HOPE! “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus’ name. On Christ the solid rock I stand; all other ground is sinking sand, all other ground is sinking sand.”
As we look forward to spring and also the Easter Season, may we truly rejoice in the Hope that our loving God has promised to us. May we use each and every day to praise and worship Him for His wonderful gift to us because of what His Son did for us on the Cross, and may we let our lights shine brightly in our homes, work place, communities and our Churches as we look forward to the hope of someday seeing our Savior face to face and being in His presence for eternity.
HOPE is a mighty big word. When we are young, we hope we will have friends when we get to school, we hope we will get good grades so we can make it to college. We hope we find a good job after we graduate, we hope to find a loving mate and have wonderful children. Sometimes what we hope for doesn’t always come out the way we have planned. At our Lenten services this year, Pastor Nessa has been using the word HOPE for our theme. In a devotional booklet that we have, there is a good description of what HOPE is: “Hope, in biblical sense, means certainty and assurance. It is the firm, unshakable, indomitable belief that we will be raised from the dead (as Jesus was) and will be welcomed into our eternal home. That’s enough to put joy in our heart and a spring in our step. “(David Roper) Another definition in the back of my Life Application Bible states, “Hope: confident trust with the expectation of fulfillment."
We can always count on God when it comes to HOPE!! When we put our trust in those around us, we may have many moments of disappointment. God has given us so many promises and we can know that He will fulfill those promises. In Romans 15:13 we read: “So I pray that God, who gives you hope, will keep you happy and full of peace as you believe in Him. May you overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” (New Living Translation)
I receive such a blessing from the words to one of our favorite songs. In the song “The Solid Rock” the second word in the first verse is HOPE! “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus’ name. On Christ the solid rock I stand; all other ground is sinking sand, all other ground is sinking sand.”
As we look forward to spring and also the Easter Season, may we truly rejoice in the Hope that our loving God has promised to us. May we use each and every day to praise and worship Him for His wonderful gift to us because of what His Son did for us on the Cross, and may we let our lights shine brightly in our homes, work place, communities and our Churches as we look forward to the hope of someday seeing our Savior face to face and being in His presence for eternity.
"Lessons from Birds"
by Judith Paulson, past Pacific Southwest District President
March 2010
Again I am praying for help and guidance in finding a speaker for the women's retreat in April. I am searching the Word for a clue on how to hear God's voice and to quiet my panic. This year our planning the retreat has been a time of waiting on the Lord. The date of retreat is drawing closer and I do not have a feeling of peace regarding the candidates we have in mind to be our main speaker. My team and I have been praying for clear guidance in choosing someone to minister and speak encouragement to the women of our district.
Our desire is that Jesus would choose that person and let us know, since He is the One who calls us to even attend. I believe the women who do attend, are brought by divine appointment, for He is the One who knows our needs. Maybe our attendance will be poor. The economy has made it difficult, and frankly, there is such lethargy in our women wanting to make the time to come. The distractions of the world seem to be pressing in and are overwhelming to us - one more thing is unthinkable. I cannot put the desire or commitment in someone's heart to assemble together, to receive spiritual food and then to go on and serve. Only He can do this.
In my discouragement and anxiousness, I walk outside. As I come up our back steps from the yard to the driveway, I hear a loud continuous squawking and I look up expecting to see a group of wild parrots flying overhead. There is none and the noisy chattering continues when I realize it is the tree across the street, which is full of little birds. The tree is teeming with activity and is actually quivering as if it is alive with the busy commotion. It makes me laugh out loud because I am reminded of a roomful of cackling gabby women at a gathering - maybe even a retreat! The birds have come to roost for the night and are settling down from the long day.
I wonder what they are saying in bird language. Are they discussing the events of the day, encouraging one another, praying with their families or talking about their plans for tomorrow? I go back into the house to again take up my reading with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that God provides the desire and innate knowledge of the importance for these birds to assemble together, so surely He can do that for our women as well.
My favorite book of Hebrews lies open as my eye falls to chapter 10, verse 23-25, which says, "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembly together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another and all the more, as you see the day drawing near."
~Judith K. Paulson
Our desire is that Jesus would choose that person and let us know, since He is the One who calls us to even attend. I believe the women who do attend, are brought by divine appointment, for He is the One who knows our needs. Maybe our attendance will be poor. The economy has made it difficult, and frankly, there is such lethargy in our women wanting to make the time to come. The distractions of the world seem to be pressing in and are overwhelming to us - one more thing is unthinkable. I cannot put the desire or commitment in someone's heart to assemble together, to receive spiritual food and then to go on and serve. Only He can do this.
In my discouragement and anxiousness, I walk outside. As I come up our back steps from the yard to the driveway, I hear a loud continuous squawking and I look up expecting to see a group of wild parrots flying overhead. There is none and the noisy chattering continues when I realize it is the tree across the street, which is full of little birds. The tree is teeming with activity and is actually quivering as if it is alive with the busy commotion. It makes me laugh out loud because I am reminded of a roomful of cackling gabby women at a gathering - maybe even a retreat! The birds have come to roost for the night and are settling down from the long day.
I wonder what they are saying in bird language. Are they discussing the events of the day, encouraging one another, praying with their families or talking about their plans for tomorrow? I go back into the house to again take up my reading with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that God provides the desire and innate knowledge of the importance for these birds to assemble together, so surely He can do that for our women as well.
My favorite book of Hebrews lies open as my eye falls to chapter 10, verse 23-25, which says, "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembly together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another and all the more, as you see the day drawing near."
~Judith K. Paulson
"A Privilege"
by Janet Spencer, WMCLB Chairman
February 2010
John 16:24 Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.
This past fall I had a wonderful opportunity provided to me by Women’s Ministries. I was privileged to attend a conference at the Billy Graham Training Center, The Cove, in North Carolina. The conference was called Filling Up to Overflow.
Anne Graham Lotz was the speaker. It was a privilege to sit under her teaching for four days - a dream come true for me. I didn’t speak with her, just heard her voice as she taught us about the life of Abraham. The line to speak with her was probably a couple hours wait at the end of the conference. As I sat and listened to Anne teach, I was not disappointed. She is a woman of grace and truth, as I expected!
As I was thinking about this privilege provided to me, I thought of the privilege of sitting in prayer with Jesus – the one full of grace and truth. Just as I had an invitation to The Cove, we have an invitation to sit in the presence of our King Jesus who hears us and answers us individually.
As I headed off to The Cove, I took a deep breath of relief after I had worked hard at getting everything in place for my family. It doesn’t require any preparation, packing or traveling to get to Jesus. We can just tune our ears and our hearts to Him. Is prayer a labor to you or a privilege?
We can enter into His presence not as an unknown as I was before Anne, but as individuals that he knows better than we know ourselves. What a privilege that He knows our name and has the time to speak with us.
I wanted to go to the conference, so I made the time. Do you make the time to be with Jesus…he’s not far away. And any time is fine! I do love to lay my requests before him in the morning and wait with expectation to hear His answers. Do you?
Listening and learning at a conference brings joy. Yet the joy that comes from turning our hearts to Jesus in prayer is such a blessing, one that brings great joy!
Attending Filling Up to Overflow was a privilege that was given to me. Have you taken advantage of the privilege you have to be filled up to overflow?
This past fall I had a wonderful opportunity provided to me by Women’s Ministries. I was privileged to attend a conference at the Billy Graham Training Center, The Cove, in North Carolina. The conference was called Filling Up to Overflow.
Anne Graham Lotz was the speaker. It was a privilege to sit under her teaching for four days - a dream come true for me. I didn’t speak with her, just heard her voice as she taught us about the life of Abraham. The line to speak with her was probably a couple hours wait at the end of the conference. As I sat and listened to Anne teach, I was not disappointed. She is a woman of grace and truth, as I expected!
As I was thinking about this privilege provided to me, I thought of the privilege of sitting in prayer with Jesus – the one full of grace and truth. Just as I had an invitation to The Cove, we have an invitation to sit in the presence of our King Jesus who hears us and answers us individually.
As I headed off to The Cove, I took a deep breath of relief after I had worked hard at getting everything in place for my family. It doesn’t require any preparation, packing or traveling to get to Jesus. We can just tune our ears and our hearts to Him. Is prayer a labor to you or a privilege?
We can enter into His presence not as an unknown as I was before Anne, but as individuals that he knows better than we know ourselves. What a privilege that He knows our name and has the time to speak with us.
I wanted to go to the conference, so I made the time. Do you make the time to be with Jesus…he’s not far away. And any time is fine! I do love to lay my requests before him in the morning and wait with expectation to hear His answers. Do you?
Listening and learning at a conference brings joy. Yet the joy that comes from turning our hearts to Jesus in prayer is such a blessing, one that brings great joy!
Attending Filling Up to Overflow was a privilege that was given to me. Have you taken advantage of the privilege you have to be filled up to overflow?
"On Call"
by Ruth Christenson, past Eastern District President
January 2010
Have you noticed how many of us are now “on call”? Day and night, we are readily accessible. This can be a good thing, for those whose help is needed in an emergency. It is a great thing for keeping communication with our children. It may not be so great, when we need uninterrupted family time, or even quiet time with God. Many of us have resorted to not answering the phone, only to check later to see who called. Many are being selective in which calls to answer, just to keep some balance in life.
During last Sunday’s sermon, we were challenged to be listening for the voice of God in our worship services. It might be something in the music, or in the scripture that is read, or even in someone’s testimony, that God uses to reveal His heart or some pertinent truth to us.
Suddenly, someone’s cell phone began to ring. I smiled to myself, thinking “wouldn’t it be great if God could just call us personally on our cell phones, to get His message to us”? God did interrupt Moses from the midst of a burning bush, to send him back to Egypt, with a new job as ambassador to Pharoah. He woke Samuel in the middle of the night, to give him a message for Eli. He stopped Saul of Tarsus in the middle of a journey, to radically change the calling of his life.
I wonder how many of us, today, might be hesitant to answer His “call” right away. Sometimes God’s timing is not ours. Sometimes His message or calling is inconvenient, in light of our plans and goals. Are we so eager to hear from Him that we “go to sleep with our spiritual phone in our hand,” ready to waken at a moment’s notice?
Thankfully, God is always on call. He says, “Call to me, and I will answer you…” (Jeremiah 33:3) King David says, “The Lord will hear when I call to Him…” (Psalm 4:3) He never sleeps nor slumbers. He hears the cry of the righteous.
Let us start 2010 with a more attentive ear for the “call” of God. May we be ready to respond with joyful obedience and service. May our “spiritual cell phones” be ever in our hands, ready for a word from our Father.
During last Sunday’s sermon, we were challenged to be listening for the voice of God in our worship services. It might be something in the music, or in the scripture that is read, or even in someone’s testimony, that God uses to reveal His heart or some pertinent truth to us.
Suddenly, someone’s cell phone began to ring. I smiled to myself, thinking “wouldn’t it be great if God could just call us personally on our cell phones, to get His message to us”? God did interrupt Moses from the midst of a burning bush, to send him back to Egypt, with a new job as ambassador to Pharoah. He woke Samuel in the middle of the night, to give him a message for Eli. He stopped Saul of Tarsus in the middle of a journey, to radically change the calling of his life.
I wonder how many of us, today, might be hesitant to answer His “call” right away. Sometimes God’s timing is not ours. Sometimes His message or calling is inconvenient, in light of our plans and goals. Are we so eager to hear from Him that we “go to sleep with our spiritual phone in our hand,” ready to waken at a moment’s notice?
Thankfully, God is always on call. He says, “Call to me, and I will answer you…” (Jeremiah 33:3) King David says, “The Lord will hear when I call to Him…” (Psalm 4:3) He never sleeps nor slumbers. He hears the cry of the righteous.
Let us start 2010 with a more attentive ear for the “call” of God. May we be ready to respond with joyful obedience and service. May our “spiritual cell phones” be ever in our hands, ready for a word from our Father.
"Precious Everyday"
by Lisa Salvesen, Western District President
December 2009
We all have things we consider precious. It may be a wedding dress, China cup, or family heirloom. We don't use them, of course, because we might break or ruin them. Replacing them is often too expensive or impossible. We often store them away or admire them behind glass doors.
Then we have things that we consider everyday. It may be a comfy outfit, favorite coffee mug, or everyday dishes and silverware. We use them each day without worrying about breaking them. We would simply buy a replacement if they did.
1 Peter 4-9 says: You are coming to Christ, who is the living cornerstone of God's temple. He was rejected by people, but he was chosen by God for great honor. (5) And you are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple. What's more, you are his holy priests. Through the mediation of Jesus Christ, you offer spiritual sacrifices that please God. (6) As the Scriptures say, "I am placing a cornerstone in Jerusalem, chosen for great honor, and anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced." (7) Yes, you who trust him recognize the honor God has given him. But for those who reject him, "The stone that the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone. (8) And, "He is the stone that makes people stumble, the rock that makes them fall." They stumble because they do not obey God's word, and so they meet the fate that was planned for them. (9) But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God's very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.
God thinks we are precious, but He wants to use us just like we are everyday. He has chosen us. We are his very own possession. Why is it then, that we refuse to be used for what he intended? He doesn't take us out of the China cabinet just to admire us or use us on special occasions. No, he wants us to be willing to be used every day. He knows what we can handle better than we do. He doesn't want to disgrace or ruin us. He is gentle and loving.
When we allow God to use us for what we were created for, he in return gives us joy. This allows others to see the goodness of God working through us. Will you trust God to use you today? Remember, we are precious everyday.
~ Lisa Gundersen Salvesen
Then we have things that we consider everyday. It may be a comfy outfit, favorite coffee mug, or everyday dishes and silverware. We use them each day without worrying about breaking them. We would simply buy a replacement if they did.
1 Peter 4-9 says: You are coming to Christ, who is the living cornerstone of God's temple. He was rejected by people, but he was chosen by God for great honor. (5) And you are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple. What's more, you are his holy priests. Through the mediation of Jesus Christ, you offer spiritual sacrifices that please God. (6) As the Scriptures say, "I am placing a cornerstone in Jerusalem, chosen for great honor, and anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced." (7) Yes, you who trust him recognize the honor God has given him. But for those who reject him, "The stone that the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone. (8) And, "He is the stone that makes people stumble, the rock that makes them fall." They stumble because they do not obey God's word, and so they meet the fate that was planned for them. (9) But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God's very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.
God thinks we are precious, but He wants to use us just like we are everyday. He has chosen us. We are his very own possession. Why is it then, that we refuse to be used for what he intended? He doesn't take us out of the China cabinet just to admire us or use us on special occasions. No, he wants us to be willing to be used every day. He knows what we can handle better than we do. He doesn't want to disgrace or ruin us. He is gentle and loving.
When we allow God to use us for what we were created for, he in return gives us joy. This allows others to see the goodness of God working through us. Will you trust God to use you today? Remember, we are precious everyday.
~ Lisa Gundersen Salvesen
Christmas Thoughts - December 2009
shared by Janet Thomson, WMCLB Canadian Representative- a poem written by her dad, Roy Cook
This month we get together, to celebrate the birth of a king
To praise Him, to glorify Him, as we speak, and as we sing.
But let's pause for a moment, and really try to understand
What actually happened that night in Bethlehem.
A babe was born in a manger, a humble, humble birth
Born of a virgin, a miracle way for God to give his gift to earth
God sent His only Son, the King, a servant's life to live.
No greater gift could anyone, at any time, ever possibly give.
He came so far from glory, where angels danced around the throne.
To live with man, for a very short time, before returning home.
God sent His Son, they called him Jesus, as the savior of fallen man.
But His own did not know Him, They did not understand.
He led a perfect life, that knew no sin or vice
And when the time came calling, He was the perfect sacrifice.
He was falsely accused, ridiculed, mocked, beaten, spat upon and tried.
The crowd all shouted, "Kill him!" and your Savior and my Savior was crucified.
He could have called His legions and had them set Him free.
But Christ himself said no, and chose to die, for you and me.
Every sin past or present or ever, ever to be
Was heaped that day on the shoulders, of the man from Galilee.
A terrible load was placed, on the perfect holy one
God himself couldn't bring himself, to look upon His Son.
God turned away as Jesus Christ Died for our sin.
But the battle against death, Christ did fight, and the battle Christ did win.
But the grave couldn't hold Him and left some quite amazed
Christ fulfilled His promise and was raised to life, raised to life in just three days.
That same wonderful Christ with that same awesome power
Is there for you each day, even in your darkest hour.
If you think that you gain heaven by the life you live, or the good things you do
You're making a deadly mistake my friend, Jesus Christ has done it all for you.
Jesus will stand there at the door and knock
Though it's up to you, the door to unlock.
Some things may deter you, and it may be your pride
But you see, there's only one handle, and that handle is on your side.
Oh, do reach for the handle and let your Savior come in
Jesus Christ is the only one, that can forgive your sins.
And he'll come in and meet you, right there where you are
No sin is ever too great, and no distance ever too far.
Now to those of you who do know the Lord
Who walk in His love and live by His Word
Please tell your friends and your family about Jesus, and I pray that you don't delay
Please don't shrug it off saying, they won't listen to me anyway.
You know it's not you they are hearing, they are hearing the voice of the Spirit.
An all-mighty God, determines the time, and chooses the place, that they are meant to hear it.
This may be hard to imagine, but please mark this well
There's one thing worse for us, than going straight to hell.
Say you're standing down there, oh heaven forbid
It's because you didn't accept Christ, not by something you did.
You feel a tap and you turn, and you look into the face
Of a friend, a brother, or a son in that awful place.
And he says to you with tears in his eyes, and a trembling in his voice.
You didn't tell me why didn't you tell me, I had to make a choice?
If we choose well and leave this earth, believers in God's grace
We'll open our eyes in an instant and look upon His face.
It is said that all men want to go to heaven, but no man wants to die
Now this is possible my friend, and here's the reason why.
With Jesus Christ, as your personal Savior, though sometimes hard to conceive
Eternal life has already started, for all, who choose, to believe.
AMEN
Have a Joyous Christmas and God Bless
Thanks!
by Cheryl Olsen, WMCLB Secretary
November 2009
I was rushing upstairs to do some mundane task, while supper was cooking, with an evening meeting ahead, when my eyes glanced out the window. What a spectacular sunset! I kept on going up the stairs, murmuring “thanks, God, for such a beautiful sunset!”
Then I stopped. What kind of a thank-you was that?! I turned around, re-traced my steps to the stairway landing. There I stood with my nose almost touching the window pane, gazing in amazement, until the rose-colored clouds had turned to purple, and finally to gray. The fireworks were done – but I had seen them.
In those few minutes of appreciating God’s palette of colors; the contrast of the black, bare, slender branches, slightly swaying, silhouetted against the sky, an occasional bird winging its way across the scene, I recognized this as God’s art show! Nobody else would ever see this exact scene, this particular combination of clouds, colors, trees and birds from this vantage point, ever again. This was not a movie, a video, an oil rendering. It was a private showing, just for me.
I drank in His love for me, and said, “Thank you. Thank you for Your beautiful creation!”
Then I stopped. What kind of a thank-you was that?! I turned around, re-traced my steps to the stairway landing. There I stood with my nose almost touching the window pane, gazing in amazement, until the rose-colored clouds had turned to purple, and finally to gray. The fireworks were done – but I had seen them.
In those few minutes of appreciating God’s palette of colors; the contrast of the black, bare, slender branches, slightly swaying, silhouetted against the sky, an occasional bird winging its way across the scene, I recognized this as God’s art show! Nobody else would ever see this exact scene, this particular combination of clouds, colors, trees and birds from this vantage point, ever again. This was not a movie, a video, an oil rendering. It was a private showing, just for me.
I drank in His love for me, and said, “Thank you. Thank you for Your beautiful creation!”
"Bread"
by Michelle Aandahl, Pacific Northwest President
October 2009
About two months ago, I was given a Breadman Plus Bread Machine. It's used, but I don't mind; I've always wanted one of these machines! How exciting to just have it handed to me! I am so happy, too, that all of the instructions came with it. All the parts and pieces are there, and I'm just anticipating the lovely, fragrant aroma of freshly baked bread floating through our little house.
Yep.
I've always wanted one of these.
So, after two months, why is it still sitting in the same spot I placed it when I lugged it home?
I've certainly looked at it long enough; it's sitting on the counter top, just behind my kitchen sink, in front of the garden window. I glance at it as I load the dishwasher....unload the dishwasher....handwash the "good" knives....scrub out the sink.....but I haven't moved that bread maker an inch. I've not read through much of the instruction booklet yet, and certainly haven't played with all the buttons; it's not even plugged in to the electical outlet. This machine is not going to produce any bread if I don't learn how to use it, and my family receives no nourishment from a stagnant appliance.
I bet you already know where I'm going with this.
God's true WORD, the Holy Bible, has been given to us for our soul's nourishment. When we spend time in scripture, we hear of God's desire for us to walk with Him; we see His passion for us; we understand His character and attributes; we grow, mature and share it with others so they can, in turn, also learn, grow and share.
When we neglect spending time in scripture, we rely on our own reasoning instead of God's wisdom; we don't hear His voice very clearly; we don't see that we're running on empty, then wonder why we have such confusion in our lives. We are merely empty vessels, unable to pour out anything for the benefit of others. The power available to us, untapped, gives no energy...and we fall flat.
Do you remember? The Lord wants us to "...taste and see that the Lord is good." (Psalm 34:8)
Do you recall? Jesus said, "I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst."
Seek your nourishment from the best source. Commit yourself to studying scripture daily, and see how the Lord calms your heart, speaks His wisdom, and changes your desires and priorities. Get involved in a Bible study, or organize one, and encourage your sisters in Christ as you journey through His Word together. What a delightful, fragrant aroma to the Lord when we desire to spend time with Him!
Yep.
I've always wanted one of these.
So, after two months, why is it still sitting in the same spot I placed it when I lugged it home?
I've certainly looked at it long enough; it's sitting on the counter top, just behind my kitchen sink, in front of the garden window. I glance at it as I load the dishwasher....unload the dishwasher....handwash the "good" knives....scrub out the sink.....but I haven't moved that bread maker an inch. I've not read through much of the instruction booklet yet, and certainly haven't played with all the buttons; it's not even plugged in to the electical outlet. This machine is not going to produce any bread if I don't learn how to use it, and my family receives no nourishment from a stagnant appliance.
I bet you already know where I'm going with this.
God's true WORD, the Holy Bible, has been given to us for our soul's nourishment. When we spend time in scripture, we hear of God's desire for us to walk with Him; we see His passion for us; we understand His character and attributes; we grow, mature and share it with others so they can, in turn, also learn, grow and share.
When we neglect spending time in scripture, we rely on our own reasoning instead of God's wisdom; we don't hear His voice very clearly; we don't see that we're running on empty, then wonder why we have such confusion in our lives. We are merely empty vessels, unable to pour out anything for the benefit of others. The power available to us, untapped, gives no energy...and we fall flat.
Do you remember? The Lord wants us to "...taste and see that the Lord is good." (Psalm 34:8)
Do you recall? Jesus said, "I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst."
Seek your nourishment from the best source. Commit yourself to studying scripture daily, and see how the Lord calms your heart, speaks His wisdom, and changes your desires and priorities. Get involved in a Bible study, or organize one, and encourage your sisters in Christ as you journey through His Word together. What a delightful, fragrant aroma to the Lord when we desire to spend time with Him!
"Make me a servant"
by Sue Patterson, Central District President
Summer 2009
As I write this little devotional, I have a major surgery in my future that is pressing heavily on my mind. Everyone seems to have a little apprehensiveness when it comes to surgery, and I am no exception. However, thru this time of stress, I have been so blessed by all the encouraging phone calls, notes in the mail and just conversations from special people. As I think of what this has meant to me, the words of the song “Make me a servant” keep ringing thru my head. There are so many ways we can each serve the Lord. We see the calling to serve that our Pastors, Missionaries, Church leaders, and Sunday school teachers are doing. But each of us has the opportunity to become a servant to the Lord. Just the words of encouragement to another person, a smile, a helpful hand, a listening ear, hospitality, these are all ways of serving. I pray that I will be reminded to be a better servant just because of all the outpouring of love I have received from the many precious people in my life. May we all make this our prayer:
Make me a servant, humble and meek. Lord, let me lift up those who are weak. Any may the prayer of my heart always be: Make me a servant, make me a servant, make me a servant today.
Make me a servant, humble and meek. Lord, let me lift up those who are weak. Any may the prayer of my heart always be: Make me a servant, make me a servant, make me a servant today.
For devotionals written before 2009, click link
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