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From Rev Dr Tom Nibbe
Prayer
Lord God, We once again give you praise, in thanksgiving, for your wonderful gifts provided daily with abundant love: shelter, transport, food, clothing, medicines, good books, fellowship, and opportunities to help others in their needs. We are truly grateful. Still in the midst of pandemic, we are thankful you have brought us forth. Be with those who have suffered the loss of loved ones and those who have recovered from Covid. We pray for our world, our country, we pray for our state, and local communities. Guide us in our life in Christ Jesus and give us desire to reach out to others and provide for their needs. In Jesus' name. Amen.
The Message
Grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ! Amen! May this be a day of great blessing for you! Our Gospel lesson for this Sunday is from the third chapter of Mark's gospel, wherein, Jesus says: "If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand...if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand..." Abraham Lincoln debated with Senator Stephen Douglas in 1858 over the choice prospective states of the Union would have if allowed to be slave states. I would've loved to have been on hand for that series of seven debates in the State of Illinois. Lincoln eventually lost the election, but gained national attention for the first time. He had served a term in congress. Opposing the Mexican War, he lost after one term. He used the quote of Jesus in Mark 3:24-25 to make a point about the eventual outcome of the struggle over the expansion of slavery in the United States. The suggestion was that our country as known up to that time would be dissolved. Indeed, that almost happened, as a result of the beginning of the American Civil War. It's little known that Abraham Lincoln read the Bible cover to cover a number of times, and, pretty much, knew the Bible well...well enough that studying his speeches as our president, we can easily assume that his use of language and understanding of human interaction, and morality, and government are directly influenced by the Bible... That is as it should be. Lincoln's knowledge of the Bible influenced the course of his presidency, without directly imposing religion on others. The lesson we learn from history is that all too often through the years, and the ages, whenever a regime combines religion and government there is always great trouble, ending up in persecution, destruction, and disaster. For that reason, a letter written to President Thomas Jefferson by the Danbury (Connecticut) Baptists in 1801-1802 seems so important in our understanding of the connection between our government and our faith concerns. The Congregationalists were giving the Baptists a rough time. It seemed the former group thought the Baptists didn't belong in their state, and needed to go elsewhere, or simply, cease and desist.
Did that sense of destiny fuel the imagination of young Abe...Why did Lincoln later on provide us with such an amazing tribute to his mother? These thoughts have often caused me to ponder, and look forward to meeting Mrs. Lincoln in heaven. Perhaps she'll have answers for me...
It also causes me to vision for those I love...my daughters...younger members of my family in former years...certainly the little ones and teens I have walked with and taught in the faith...We sometimes worry about them and the decisions they make presently and will make along the way. Perhaps we can be part of God's plan for those we care about by having the same frame of mind and heart as Nancy Lincoln had for her son, Abraham. Whatever that vision was, decidedly, it was there...and it worked. We're not called to run the show, Christian Church, but to provide the insight and wisdom to win the hearts and minds of those who rule and are governed. We have all the tools to live fully in God's truth and to use the gifts the Lord has given us to trust in His most perfect timing --- and to know that --- in the most dire, uncertain and scary moments, He is in control. Cordially,Tom
It doesn't mean that Church isn't allowed to influence the thinking and believing of American government officials or its citizens. It makes the point of declaring that no particular religious group should directly control government or society, and yet, as President Lincoln did, powerfully and greatly, influence political decisions, bolster up society, and improve government...without controlling them.
Faith should influence decisions made in government according to that presidential doctrine, and yet, not demand it... For this reason, it's extremely important to make that distinction. We can worship and practice our faith as we see fit to do so, and yet, not think, that others must be forced to believe as we do. At the same time, President Jefferson wanted to encourage people of faith to make essential contributions to society and government...that was their job! Evangelical? But how does that affect an evangelical like myself. I want all persons to know Jesus. I'm not shy or ashamed to share His story of great compassion and salvation. The answer isn't in "having leverage" over those souls we desire to reach. I don't want to have legislative or legal power over them. What seems to be a direction for a person like me? The answer is found in the verb infinitive, "to convince". One question is --- Do others recognize Christ Jesus in my actions and my words? Saint Francis said, "Preach Christ...and sometimes speak about Him..." Be yourself as a human being...as a genuine person. But...know your Scriptures. What about worship on a regular basis to uplift the spirit within? How many of us are in a good solid Bible study these days? If you're not, why not? Do you know your Bible as well as Abraham Lincoln did? Another question is --- Am I developing the skills to share Christ Jesus naturally, so that, when appropriate, I can provide just precisely what other dear souls need to come to terms with sinful behavior, despair, guilt, shame, defeat in life, and regret? Do I need to become another Billy Graham? No. Be yourself. Everybody else is taken. When you take it to heart, you will discover the evangelist within... Does a person have to appear "holier than thou"? No. Be yourself. A number of professional evangelists I am acquainted with need to discover the wisdom of the expression, "You can catch more bears with honey than with vinegar..." Develop the skill of being a delight to be with... However, that's not all...really get into worship and the Bible... Vision Sometimes, recurrently, I wonder about something. Abraham Lincoln once said, "All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother..."
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From Rev Sue Ann Yarbrough
Her life became small and very large at the same time. Yes, she withdrew from the world, but she was really drawing closer to God.
This is a good model for those of us in the third part of our lives. I know I periodically worry that my life is shrinking. Yet, as Julian's life has shown us, we can grow more deeply into God when external occupations and distractions diminish. I love the image of being clothed in Spirit now. I have always believed that when our physical lives come to an end, we dissolve into Spirit. We might as well start dressing up for it now!
If you, too, sometimes worry that your life may be shrinking, think of yourself as an anchorite - one who is keeping vigil for God. Maybe this is a good time to deepen your prayer practice. Remember, we are being clothed in Spirit, and God is holding us, much like Julian gently held that hazelnut so long ago. We are all a part of God's Everything.
Prayer Holy One, We thank you for all the voices of Wisdom and guidance that continue to surface in our lives. As our communities and churches begin to open, we offer our gratitude to you. May our openings provide safe places where people can come to talk, to listen, and to laugh. We thank you for new friendships that are forming, and for old friendships that have endured. Where there is a sense of loss, dear God, may we make room for your healing presence. Holy One, we also pray for those places in the world that are still struggling under the burden of Covid. We pray that governments will work together to help heal our world, and that all of creation will know peace. We are grateful for all the ways you hold your creation, Amen -- Rev. Sue Ann Yarbrough, Associate Pastor San Lorenzo Community Church, United Church of Christ www.slzchurch.org www.hearthpsalms.blogspot.com
"...for you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again of fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship...and by Him we cry, "Abba" ["Daddy"], Father..." (Romans 8:15)
"...I'm a success today because I had a friend who believed in me and I didn't have the heart to let him down..." (Abraham Lincoln)
"...weeping may remain for a night... but rejoicing comes in the morning..." (Psalm 30:5b)
Prayer "Gracious, loving Savior God! We come to you this day as hapless, helpless sinners before you - your perfection and your glory...You offer us the bronze serpent in Jesus. We look upon Him and acknowledge several things. Sin and death have no power over us. Our gaze upon Him makes us whole, with forgiveness and great resolution for our human problem with sin in the process. We can take on each new day as refreshed, energized persons, anticipating the assurance of everlasting life, not based upon our merit, but rather based on our gaze upon the bronze serpent, Christ. Thank you, Lord, for this time of thought, regarding these benefits, and reflection. You give us only the very best... In Jesus' name. Amen.
"O, Lord, what is humanity - that you care for us, the Son of Man - that you think of us...we are like a breath, our days are like a fleeting shadow..." (Psalm 144:3)
WHAT COUNTS IS THAT GOD'S WAYS ARE BETTER When we think ourselves, on one hand, as deserving God's love, benefits, and assurances...or, on the other hand, when we think we cannot deserve it because of our sordid past, or what evil and unhelpful deeds we unwittingly continue to do...
FOCUS UPON THE ACTION OF GOD
Simply...stop thinking so much about yourself...let the God of the Bible forgive, restore, grant assurance, give you strength to live your life the way the Lord intended... I'm absolutely fascinated with the narrative of the bronze serpent in the wilderness when Israel was under Moses (Numbers 21:8,9). The image has been so effective my life that I've dreamed time and time again the details of the narrative and I've awakened feeling forgiven and refreshed. Sin in my life has nearly destroyed me at times, time after time, so, the promise of the Scriptures in regard to forgiveness and redemption are quite live-giving for me. Because of that image in my personal life, it amazes me that it shows up again in the superlative third chapter of John's Gospel. We're all familiar with what is often regarded as the most important verse in all of Scripture (John 3:16): "...for God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life..."
It has granted to me, eternal life...and that eternal life...began as soon as I looked up. That bronze serpent was Jesus lifted up for me on the pole known to us as the cross.
a thought - Eternal Life STOP COMPLAINING ABOUT THINGS When I received "new life" in Jesus, I also received eternal life. Eternal life for me is "heaven". I'm in heaven on earth. Daily I live within the context of peace, joy, and perfect love. But... I'm challenged because, living in this first phase of heaven, I also live on earth, and in a real world. As Jesus made a choice to provide forgiveness and eternity for me, both phase one and phase two (after this present life), I need to make my choice... to stop complaining about things...and come to terms with a very real world...without using unacceptable language and having killing thoughts about other people and my circumstances. In this regard, Saint Paul in Romans 8:28 is very helpful to me: "...and we know that in ALL things God works for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose..." Recently I ran across a terrific quote from the pen of William Law: "...if anyone could tell you the shortest, surest way to all happiness and perfection, that person must tell you to make it a rule to yourself to thank and praise God for everything that happens to you...for it is certain that whatever seeming calamity happens to you...if you thank and praise God for it...you turn it into a blessing..." Please note a little gem from Charles H. Spurgeon: "...cry from grace from God to be able to see God's hand in every trial, and then, for grace to submit to it...I think there is generally an end to troubles, when we get to that..." THE BRONZE SERPENT AND PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION When you and I focus totally upon the "bronze serpent" in Christ Jesus we come to terms with ourselves, our world, and our destiny. We step into Eternity, the "new life" in Christ. We are solidly grounded and yet we're able and willing to adequately deal with the real world we live in. We don't complain any more because all that we encounter is the next divine step in our eternal destiny. It's a choice we make, being well informed in the ways of God. God is in charge and we are focused upon His Lordship. We look upon the bronze serpent and we are forgiven and healed. We focus upon the image of the bronze serpent and we are transformed to live out God's plan for our lives. Obviously, this is too big to pass off in our lives. All else is mere religion, having nothing to do with the saving power of Christ in our lives. Cordially, Tom
From Rev Sue Ann Yarbrough
Blessings to you all and to the communities you serve! May the peace of Christ surround you and bring you joy.
Meditation
Some of what happens in our lives, we really do not consciously choose. That includes both of what we call our joys and what we call our sorrows. Consequently, the first line of this scripture causes me to pause and ponder that maybe, much of what we go through, we go through as appointed ones. That we are being called to learn from all our experiences in order to produce good fruit that lasts.
Prayer
Holy One, we are grateful for all the ways you feed us, even in ways we do not completely understand. We thank you for the gift of one another. We thank you that our communities are beginning to open up. We thank you for the staff members who have worked so diligently to see us safely through. We thank you for friends and family who have been praying for us. We pray that those who are suffering in this world may know your peace. We pray that all governments will keep the well being of their citizens in all their decisions. We pray for peace in this world. We pray that our prayers can be good fruit in this world. In deep gratitude we lift these prayers to you, Amen -- Rev. Sue Ann Yarbrough, Associate Pastor San Lorenzo Community Church, United Church of Christ www.hearthpsalms.blogspot.com www.spiritcareministry.org
From Rev Dr Tom Nibbe
The Whitsuntide Service will focus upon the meaning of Pentecost for you and me.
Scripture
"...I will make breath enter you and you will come to life. I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you and you will come to life...then you'll know that I am the Lord..." (Ezekiel 37:5b,6) "...but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth..." [Jesus](Acts 1:7) "...they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship of the breaking of bread and to prayer... everyone was filled with awe...and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles..." (Acts 2:1-21)
"...when the Paraclete [Counselor] comes, whom I'll send to you from the Father --- the Spirit of Truth --- who goes out from the Father, He will testify about Me...and you must testify...because you have been with me from the beginning..." (John 15:26-27) "...but when He, the Spirit of Truth comes, He will guide you into all truth...He won't speak on His own...He will speak only what He hears...and He will tell you what is yet to come...He will bring glory to Me by taking from what's mine and making it known to you..." (John 16:13) Prayer Gracious, all-knowing God! We pause this morning to give you much deserved praise for your kindness and your daily provision for our lives. We are ready to shout, "Happy Birthday, Church!!!" on the occasion of the Pentecost. We ask your forgiveness, and we joyfully receive your undeserved kindness as you grant us unconditional pardon, as we pick up the brokenness of our lives, and are restored as whole human beings through our Lord and Savior, Jesus. Thank you for cleansing us so thoroughly in body, soul, and mind. Lord, we're ready and willing to start a new chapter in our lives. We've heard there is more than one dimension of faith in your beloved Son, Jesus. We're ready to step up in faith to take hold of your superlative Spiritual gifts and be renewed in a way we've not experienced before. We're not afraid. Send your Holy Spirit to teach us, as you touch us, and show us a more powerful and compassionate way to live and serve. Enliven us and refresh us in the ways of the Holy Spirit. We pray in Jesus' name. Amen. The Message The word for Counselor, meaning Holy Spirit, in koin'ae Greek, is "paraklete"...often, in the Church, we speak of the Holy Spirit as the Paraklete...even though it is Greek, it is often used as part of the English language, because of its exotic sound...
It's the Day of Pentecost in the Christian Church. It's the birthday of the Church. The 2nd Chapter of Acts stands out among the multitude of Bible verses to remember by heart. For years I have encouraged Confirmation Classes to memorize this portion of the Bible.
The setting of the original occasion is of great interest. Was the Passion of Jesus not enough for us? To some it may seem like an addition, an addendum, tacked on to the Holy Week (Passion Week) narrative. We remember.
Friends! The story doesn't end there. Okay. We turn to the 2nd Chapter of Acts. The disciples were together in the upper room. The text says the doors were locked (John 20:19) for fear of the Jews...that is... "other Jews" of the party that put Jesus on the cross. The word that stands out for me is the word, "...fear..." The situation that catches my attention is that "the door was locked"...because of fear...of the Jews of that other party. The story of the cross and the Resurrection would remain unknown potentially because of fear. Everything that happened on Passion Week was momentous and earth-shaking, but there was a real possibility that the facts of Holy Week would never be known to the world. Because of fear! The Good New of Jesus would travel no further than the walls of the upper room...because of fear... In a sense, the disciples were much the same as we are today in 2021. Our doors are locked --- and well they may be. It's because of fear...of the unknown...of all the possible ways we and our family and our possessions could be endangered. It makes sense...
Often, we do our Christian duty by showing up for worship every once in a while, every now and then. The "scoop" around our churches is...don't volunteer for anything that may commit us to a more meaningful life for us and the cause of Christ.
We are afraid to try on "Christ"... seriously, all fear aside, just doing it all for Jesus no conditions. Like the disciples, but for different reasons these days, we're afraid.
The disciples found themselves in the upper room behind locked doors. After everything that happened, after everything Jesus did for them, and us, it would have been of no effect...because the doors were locked... because of fear. We're afraid of a substantial commitment to Christ lest we take up time, effort, and even money, to advance the good news given to us through Christ Jesus. We've been called and saved to share Jesus as disciples. We're afraid of missing that special television program, or movie, or civic event. When it comes right down to it, normally, these are all in all, of non-effect. Experiencing them doesn't make a difference. Especially if attentiveness in this regard is merely habitual.
We haven't developed an increasingly strong sense of being a disciple of Jesus. We do our "Christian duty". Where's the great joy and sense of satisfaction in that? We're too often content in being a church member...and all too often a "church member of sorts". Too often these days I imagine the Lord saying to Himself... "What do my followers think they're doing in their spiritual lives?"
The Spirit within us all too often flickers. We need a blazing flame. Like Jesus' disciples we're full of fear...but for different reasons. For this reason, we need the in-filling of the Holy Spirit. We need to pray for the Lord Jesus to send the Holy Spirit to us. The contemporary Church is in desperate need for the Holy Spirit to enter the hearts of the people of God. The lack of concentration on the Holy Spirit's work in our faith lives is a fundamental and foundational problem. The underlying problem is fear. I sometimes picture our notion of the Godhead as the three persons of the Trinity being in an automobile. God the Father and God the Son are in the front seat...and the Holy Spirit is in the back seat. We need a Spiritual automobile that will seat "three" in the front seat. For our lives to work in Christ Jesus, the Holy Spirit needs to be on an equal footing with the other two persons of the Trinity...we haven't preached it enough. We haven't believed it enough. We've avoided the underlying problem of motivation and performance in the Church. We need to bring the Holy Spirit up there with the Father and the Son. We need to take the Holy Spirit seriously. We need to learn the lesson of what happened to a fearful group of disciples who were more focused upon fear, than sharing the fact that they were witnesses of all that had happened in Jerusalem during Holy Week. After the experience of the Pentecost, for the rest of their lives, the disciples of Jesus were fearless and bold and committed to the power of the Gospel to change the world. I get it.
From Rev Sue Ann Yarbrough
Hello Everyone, I hope this meditation finds you all doing well. I pray your communities are healthy, and are beginning to open up. I am making some in person visits as well as continuing some Zoom worship services and meetings so I hope to see you all soon. The ministry is coming back to life, but the budget has suffered considerably. If your community can possibly contribute any amount, we currently have been offered a matching grant. If you would like more information, please go to our website: www.spiritcareministry.org. Thank you!
Jeremiah is one of my favorite prophets. He was in exile, along with others, and he was a voice of encouragement for people to take root where they find themselves. This week, this text led me to ponder the beautiful Genesis 2:7 where God lifts up some earth, breathes life into it, and thus begins the story of humanity. Our journey began by being held, and we are always held. This was not a one time event. However, Jeremiah reminds us that God may very well rework and remold us as needed. Such forming and reforming may get uncomfortable at times, but nonetheless, we cannot fall out of God's embrace. Yes, it is easy to feel discarded in times of change, and there are enough shifts going on in my life that I am tempted to believe I am being cast aside. However, in my heart I know that is simply not possible. God continues to breathe life into us all. This is how we are made new again in, and for love.
Prayer Holy One, we thank you for vaccines, for people who do research, and for those who work in seemingly ordinary ways, but with extraordinary results. Please watch over our communities and our families. Help us to be steadfast. We look to you, to Christ, and to the Psalms and the writings of the prophets, knowing you are the one source of all. We thank you for literally holding us together and helping us to move forward. May our world be healed.
In gratitude we pray, Amen.
-- Rev. Sue Ann Yarbrough, Associate Pastor San Lorenzo Community Church, United Church of Christ www.slzchurch.org www.hearthpsalms.blogspot.com
From Rev Dr Tom Nibbe
Scripture "...therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus was living with us, beginning from John's baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us, for one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection..." (Acts 1:21-22) "...so they nominated two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. Then they prayed, 'Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.' Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias ...so he was added to the eleven disciples..." (Acts 1:23-26) "...that person is like a tree planted by streams of water which yields its fruit in season...and whose leaf does not wither...whatever they do prospers..." [Anonymous] (Psalm 1:3) "...as I would not be a slave...so...I would not be a master..." [Abraham Lincoln] "...this is the One who came by water and the blood---Jesus Christ. He did not come by water only, but by water and blood...and it is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth...for there are three that testify: the Spirit, the water, and the blood...and the three are in agreement. We accept human testimony, but God's testimony is greater because it is the testimony of God which He has given about His son..." (1 John 5:9-13)
.Grace and peace in the Lord Jesus to you and yours this precious day and always! It is such a privilege to share the priceless perspectives and views of the Holy Bible. They are life-giving for us as we continue to be challenged day by day in a very real world, with sure words and guidance for heart, soul, and mind. May the good Lord continue to enfold you in His love and protection. Take Jesus along with you today.
Prayer Lord, let us step forward in our lives with courage and sufficient power to take on the day, but put that all important "hedge of protection" within and around us. We praise you in advance for providing all we need this day to perform, outdo ourselves, and prosper. We will continue to give you the praise in both pleasant or unpleasant circumstances. We give you thanks and praise in advance for all that befalls us with peaceful hearts. In Jesus' name. Amen. The Message How confused we become when it comes to placing value upon things, experiences, and events that happen in our lives. It's so easy to imagine we accomplished more than we did, or less... We sometimes think about these as we evaluate our experience as followers of Jesus and as active members in our church. Were we worth the Lord's effort? How we wish we could do more... something always stands in the way.
When I think about eternal life, I think about perfection all around me, forever bliss, and magnificent glory...to thrust away every single touch or dab of negativity and heartfelt yearning of the soul. Above all, I think of a place where there is no stress when I think of heaven
Whoever believes in Jesus has eternal life in the here and now. In Him we have all we need.
Human perfection doesn't seem to be a huge advantage in the Bible I read. Your best with your whole heart is sufficient. If I am wrong in this, please make sure to correct me now. I have a thought that makes sense to me. Often, we get the notion that stress is thrust upon us. Well, the Bible seems to say that God is not going to give you more than you can handle. At times in my life I have questioned that...and I know that you have done the same. Stress will always be part of life, but you and I have the habit of...adding on!!! We place more of a burden upon ourselves than God would ever require! Come on! Get off of the treadmill! Take things as they come. Trust in God's Word. Take one thing at a time. Be aware that you may be thinking you have to take something on that you don't have to take on. Your life in Jesus is not about taking on more than what is humanly possible. Your efforts in Jesus are not about being absolutely perfect---because no human being is perfect---and besides--- and I often emphasize this...no perfect people are going to heaven! The reason for this...is...there are no perfect people. The Lord knows you quite well (it's surprising, it's sometimes frightening how insightful) and will never give you more than you can handle, more than would give you a great deal of personal satisfaction. Find out what is unnecessary.
When you do things "the easy way" in Jesus that excellence and resilience will be accompanied by your attractive attributes of personal joy and deep-seated peace.
Cordially, Tom
From Rev Sue Ann Yarbrough,
Grace and Peace to each of you! I pray this newsletter finds you all in good health and spirits. We are all in a time of transition, so this passage from Hebrews seems appropriate. Please keep in mind that SpiritCare honors all faith traditions. This passage mentions Jesus, but you should feel free to substitute any sacred name that has meaning for you. We are on this journey together and what a blessing that is.
Meditation
There was a time when this passage made me uncomfortable. It reminded me when I was in high school and was encouraged to try out for track. I was very shy and not interested in athletic endeavors. The idea of running around a track had no appeal for me but there were those who thought the endeavor would do me good. As you can imagine, I was the one who was always coming in last, usually in a bad mood. I was definitely not chosen for the track team. It would take me many years to realize the value of coming in last.
He said he did not quit because he felt that his family and his country were counting on him to not give up, but finish this long journey he had started. While I do not know if a great cloud of witnesses was there to see him cross the line, many people did return to the stadium to witness his triumph.
As I mentioned it took many years for me to understand the value of coming in last. The value of not giving up. The value of feeling compassion for others who are also struggling.
Prayer
Holy One, help us to find the stamina and the courage to keep going. Many times we stumble, and many times we yearn to turn back because we are afraid. Yet, you constantly call us forward. We thank you for giving us good traveling companions. We do not have to journey alone. May we have the sensitivity to pause and see if someone appears to be lagging behind. May we always have the compassion to cheer one another on and to lend a helping hand when needed. In gratitude we pray, Amen. -- Rev. Sue Ann Yarbrough, Associate Pastor San Lorenzo Community Church, United Church of Christ www.slzchurch.org www.hearthpsalms.blogspot.com
From Rev Dr Tom Nibbe
Today is Mother's Day. On this very special day we acknowledge the role our mothers have had in our lives. Our moms have loved us and shown us how to love ourselves and others. Our mothers are those who have prepared us to take this life on and do the work we do and to do it up right. Our moms are not necessarily the women who have given birth to us, but all those special, unique and distinctive ladies who have greatly impacted our lives. Prayer Thank you, Gracious and Loving God, for the blessing of mothers in our lives. As Abraham Lincoln once said, all that we are and everything we hope to be, we owe to our dear mothers. May all the ladies we know who've meant so much to us --- who share in this message today --- be blessed in this sincere expression of our love. May they know our sincere expression of appreciation. May they have a day of happiness and rejoicing. We pray this simple prayer in Jesus' name. Amen. Attributes Regarding Motherhood "...a mother is a person, who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never really cared for pie..." Anonymous "...mothers are like 'dab' rapid-fuse adhesive --- even when they're gone, they're still holding the family together..." Anonymous "...by the time a woman realizes her mother was right --- she has a daughter who thinks she's wrong..." Anonymous "...if at first you don't succeed... try doing it the way Mom told you to do it in the beginning..." Anonymous "...behind every great kid there is a mother who is pretty sure she is screwing it up..." Anonymous "...all that I am and all that I ever hope to be...I owe to my mother..." Abraham Lincoln "...a definition of motherhood... learning about strengths you did not know you had... Linda Wooten "...no man is poor who has a Godly mother..." Abraham Lincoln "...motherhood is the exquisite inconvenience of being another person's everything..." Anonymous "...all I am I owe to my mother..." George Washington Scripture "...while Peter was still speaking these words the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message...the circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles...for they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God..." (Acts 10:44-48) "...the Lord Almighty is with us...the God of Jacob is our refuge..." Psalm 46:11 [King David]
"...the Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful word..." (Hebrews 1:3)
The Message This is a message for those who are truly seeking "the straight story", the bottom line, that is, the essence of what a life of faith is all about... this is for the specific person the Lord has been speaking to my heart about...the person who senses some "element within" causing some considerable disturbance. What is it? Something being stirred deep within. Something speaking in what seems to be a foreign, but attractive message lacking words. It seems to be something needing clarification. It is a strange, but friendly voice. It is the Holy Spirit knocking on your door. What is your relationship to the thought of having a personal relationship with the Creator of the Universe? It may sound too big for the likes of "flesh and bones" creatures like you and me...but the bold invitation of the Scriptures suggest just that... Yes, there are the trappings of religion. I suppose we all have them. Trappings are not the essence of faith. Sometimes faith and religion are almost opposite each other...but true spirituality is about a personal relationship with God. I would like you to note a powerful passage in Hebrews 3:1b... "...fix your thoughts on Jesus..." Can you imagine an eternal deity, that is, God, as human being also? What difference would that make in terms of living your life, day by day, being totally genuine with yourself, and yet, being spiritual at the same time? It reminds me of a joke riddle that I heard some months ago. What do you call a 6'8" dude with a switch-blade knife? The answer to that riddle is..."You call him, 'Sir!'" There is something "creatively intimidating" about an awesome human being standing before you requiring your attention. Would you be as responsive to somebody who gave you a Bible and asked you to read it? Often, a person would take the Bible politely, set it aside, and not read it. If the person who is seeking your attention and response is the Lord Jesus Christ, you really would pay attention. A real live person with an urgent message for you is a lot more effective than a well-written book, meant to help you out, that you end up never reading...even though it would save your life. This is the precise reason that the Lord Jesus Christ as a person, not only the exact representation of Almighty God, but God in human flesh, is so impressive. You really need to respond to him. You can't brush him off. As you read this message, He's reaching out to you. He is calling you from the shadows of ignorance and despair into the light of His Good News. Could you discern some kind of reward, some kind of premium or advantage in dedicating your life to that God-Man and his proposition meant to transform your life and cause you to come powerfully alive as never before?
I'd encourage you at this point, if you have never turned your life over to God in Christ Jesus...that you go ahead and do that...just say... "Lord Jesus, I turn from my own way, and in repentance, I freely choose to follow you. I know you died on the cross of Calvary for my sins, and I thank you, that you did so, so that I might be freed from my bondage to sin, shame, guilt, and regret in my life. I acknowledge that you rose from the dead on the third day, and therefore, paved the way for my destiny to inherit eternal life. Thank you, Jesus. I receive you as my personal Lord and Savior. Amen."
I want to share something in the message for today that may transform your life...and cause your floral arrangement to blossom forth... As we read the passage from Acts, it seemed unlikely that those who had, just then, simply heard Peter's preaching became immediately initiated into a life of faith in Jesus, and were exhibiting the gift of the Holy Spirit. This is the power of God's Word in the preaching of the Gospel! That which churns within us is the work of the Spirit. When we hear the preaching of the Word, the Holy Spirit works within us, and without all other kinds of encouragement and inspiration, we hear the truth of the Gospel and we come to "life"...that is...the saving grace of God through Jesus. I would like to invite you this Mother's Day to receive God's forgiveness in Christ Jesus and the assurance of Everlasting Life. If your heart has been searching for something, and you don't know what it could be, it is the Holy Spirit calling you to come home to God. Accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior. Receive the gift of the Holy Spirit like those Gentiles of old. Blessings to you on this special day...Let mom know you love her... In my case, thank you, birth mother, for the gift of life... Thank you, adoptive mom, a new, wonderful home and family... Thank you, Dad, for being mom and dad, upon mom's passing... Thank you, Aunt Hilda, for caring for me summers and holidays after my adoptive mom passed...we were destined to be together... Cordially, Tom
From Rev Sue Ann Yarbrough
Greetings to all! As the ministry starts to emerge, it is a pleasure to begin seeing people in person or on Zoom. Connection is essential to us all. Yes, we must be prudent, but I think this past year has taught us that where there is a will there is a way. Let us be intentional in our willingness to come together to worship, study, and pray. I pray that your families are safe and healthy, and that there is joy in each of your hearts.
Meditation
We cannot really declare ourselves faithful if we do not trust in God. Furthermore, if we say we trust in God, we must trust our lives. Not that we live perfect lives, but that we learn from what we call our successes and what we call our mistakes. It is all a learning process. If we trust that we are being guided and held by God, we then can find the courage to live. If we can hold lightly to our lives, trusting the Lord and actually taking delight in the Lord, we can be confident that God is providing. This is true in every phase of our lives.
Our hearts are where we can truly dwell with God no matter where our physical bodies might be or in what condition. God does not succumb to boundaries. We can know with a deep knowing that God is indeed Emanuel, God with us. For Christians, we can say that Christ is within. May we all remember that God has many names, including the one that has yet to be uttered. Nonetheless, let us be confident that God recognizes us all when we call with open hearts and minds.
Prayer Holy One, we thank you for this pilgrimage that is our life. We thank you that even when we make troubling mistakes and take wrong turns, you are there to guide us to the right path. May we always be open to this love, this guidance. Help us to be rooted in these lives so we can continue to grow. We know we can grow, because we are always being nourished by your love. May we always be willing to accept your abundant love. In deep gratitude we pray, Amen Rev. Sue Ann Yarbrough, Associate Pastor San Lorenzo Community Church, United Church of Christ www.slzchurch.org www.hearthpsalms.blogspot.com
From Rev Dr Tom Nibbe
Scripture "...then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. 'Do you understand what you are reading?' Philip asked...'How can I,' he said, 'unless someone explains it to me'...so he invited Philip to come up and sit with him..." (Acts 8:30-31) "...all who go down to the dust will kneel before Him..." (Psalm 22:29b)
Prayer
O God, this morning we are grateful for your abiding presence as we begin this day. We are filled with the benediction of your Holy Spirit. We yield, as you reveal your way in this present hour. Forgive us all our sins and restore to us our joy and inner peace. In you, we find our vision to be your servants in our world. Cleanse us as you prepare us for this day. Give us the confidence to know that, whatever our situation, all things work together for our good and those we reach out to. In Jesus' name, Amen. The Message The Lord's abundant grace and peace to you and yours this morning! These have been glorious, sunny, magnificent days for us good folks on the Coastline. I hope you've been enjoying these several past days as much as the we have. I am overwhelmed with the Holy Spirit considering the great ideas to write about today because of the content of the lessons suggested for this Sunday from the "Appointed Readings". First of all, there is the powerful poetic sense of the twenty-ninth verse of King David's "Psalm 22", which as a whole is a spiritual masterpiece, but that phrase, "...all who go down to the dust will kneel before Him..." just blows me away. It is simply a phrase for the ages...an encouragement for us to know, that, for us, it will not be the case of an eventual sad demise, but rather a glorious, fulfilled destiny as we bow before the Savior, having passed from this world. The power in the thought is in how it was expressed. Second of all, I would like to refer to the "Acts" account of Philip's dialogue with the Ethiopian eunuch. I imagine him to be tall, dark, and handsome. He was no dummy, as they say. He was in charge of the Ethiopian treasury. He was a man of substance because of the chariot he rode in. He was obviously a spiritual man, having traveled a long distance to come to Jerusalem, as a gentile convert to Judaism. He was puzzled with the text in Isaiah 53 (notably verses 7 and 8) and Philip in turn shared the connection of this passage with the passion, death and resurrection of his Master, the Lord Jesus Christ. Eventually that day the eunuch believed, was baptized and received the Holy Spirit. It is an extraordinary encounter. Third of all, the analogy Jesus provided for us...as He suggested that He is the "true vine" and His Father is the gardener. He went on to say that His Father cut off every branch that does not bear fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit, He prunes, so it will produce every more fruit. Thus, Jesus made a real distinction between two kinds of pruning:
Fourthly, in recent weeks, I've been returning to Saint John's first pastoral epistle, called, 1 John 1-5, specifically the fourth chapter. The key phrase for me in the text is 1 John 4:18b, "...perfect love drives out fear..." If my life is dominated by a fear of this or that, whether facing real challenge or danger, or simply being afraid of things unreal, the love of God posited in my heart cannot blossom. It cannot be made manifest. There was a time when I needed to be mindful of my own life and well-being and that of my family. It was hard to see beyond the anticipation and fear of my situation. The phrase of this verse became "immediate revelation" meant for me and took on meaning that freed me to live responsibly, and yet now, that in the midst of danger or uncertainty I could know the Lord was covering me and those I loved. The authority of Scripture gave me a new lease on life. If we are ever afraid of our current situation, the future, or of God's judgment, we can be reminded of His love. From Romans 8:37-39, we know that He loves us perfectly: "...in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us...for I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels or demons, neither the present or the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord..." We can resolve our fears first by focusing on His immeasurable love for us and then by allowing Him to love others through us. That divine love will quiet our fears and give us confidence to take on the day. Once I knew that God's love within me and the fear brought on by a multitude of challenges in life, I knew I needed to make a choice...either live in fear...or depend on and feel the comfort of the Lord's "love" resourcefulness to bring me through. Cordially, Tom
From Rev Sue Ann Yarbrough
Greetings, Everyone, I hope you are able to get out and enjoy the sunshine and flowers. Be good to yourselves, please! God has created this world to be enjoyed. Please feel free to share these meditations where you see fit. God's love is for all, and love is meant to be shared.
Meditation
Exile and return are important themes in the Bible, and I am grateful. Even if the pandemic had never happened, most of us at one time or another have felt that we, too, have been exiled. We have felt lonely and isolated. Yet, the theme of the Good Shepherd also runs through Scripture. In our stronger moments we know that God continues to call each and every one of us to him. This is true, no matter what our age or health. We are not forgotten.
Prayer
Today I am sharing a passage from Hazelnuts from Julian of Norwich, Meditations on Divine Love by Ellyn Sanna. Julian was born sometime in 1342. In her lifetime, the plague would sweep through England three times. Yet, she could only write of God's love. In her heart she knew that our souls are eternal.
Let us take these words to heart, and live fully in the sweetness and grace that is our divine inheritance.
Amen -- Rev. Sue Ann Yarbrough, Associate Pastor San Lorenzo Community Church, United Church of Christ www.slzchurch.org www.hearthpsalms.blogspot.com P.S. According to the UN Refugee Agency, in 2019 "At least 79.5 million people around the world have been forced to flee their homes. Among them are nearly 26 million refugees, around half of whom are under the age of 18." https://www.unhcr.org/en-us/figures-at-a-glance.html Let us pray that all people who are yearning for home find their way there. Let us also pray for India and their struggles with the pandemic. Holy God, may the nations of the world show your love and compassion by responding to these needs. Lord, you hear our prayers.
"...this then is how we know we belong to the truth...and how we set our hearts at rest in His presence whenever our hearts condemn us...for God is greater than our hearts, and He knows everything..." (1 John 3:19)
"...if then the light within you is darkness...how profound is that darkness..." [Jesus] (Matthew 6:29b) "...don't give dogs what is sacred...don't throw your pearls to the pigs... if you do, they will trample them under your feet and then turn and tear you to pieces..." [Jesus] (Matthew 7:6) "...I have come that they may have life and have it abundantly..." [Jesus] "...when Jesus finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at His teaching...because He taught as one who has authority, and not as their teachers of the law..." (Matthew 7:28-29) Prayer Dear Lord, you are the Good Shepherd. You seek the lost, and sometimes that lost sheep is us. You guide us when we are perplexed and bring us into your forever fold. Feed us this day. Bless those suffering and feeling alone. Make us to be satisfied in our lives as you comfort and heal us daily. More than anything else, allow us to feel the fullness you have built within us. Make us one with you. Allow us to live in that fullness and one day be united with you in eternal life, based upon your undeserved grace. In Jesus' name. Amen. The Message "...the One who is within you is greater than the one who is in the world..." (1 John 3:4b) This is the Sunday of the Good Shepherd, the fourth Sunday of Easter. I have always had mixed thoughts about Jesus' teaching in this regard, until I had the opportunity to witness shepherds, first of all, in Pakistan, up in the foothills of the Karakorum range, (the Himalayas), above Chikagali, some miles from Abbottabad, way up there. You see, I was raised in Wisconsin, and we knew nothing about shepherds, except what we heard about in church on Sunday.
On several occasions, sitting together looking down thousands of feet to the plains of the Punjab, we were fascinated by a child tending her sheep, a shepherd girl, not more than nine years of age. She always seemed covered with dust, sometimes caked with dirt, face covered with her soiled niqab, because she was perhaps always outside without the convenience of water to wash. Such a sweet little girl she was and so attentive to her sheep. The sheep were like "living play-things" to her. You could see that she loved them, and that, they were her only companions day after day. Where she slept I don't know.
Whether she had regular time with her human family. I don't know. She was a small, female copy of the shepherd boy, David. She seemed so attentive and so responsible for her tender age. I often wondered what kind of future she could possibly have...I think I really knew...but for those days...her sheep were everything to her. I could imagine David being much the same as this little girl. Jesus described himself as the Good Shepherd. The people listening to him could understand exactly what He was trying to say in providing an image for them. They could respond in a way I hadn't been able to embrace, if you will, until observing this little shepherd girl on a regular basis. Because of customs and language we were not able to communicate verbally. We were getting a footing in Urdu, but she spoke B'hari, the mountain dialect. The boy shepherd basically lives with his sheep. They are very affectionate and sweet and communicative. He directs them, as Psalm 23 suggests, to clean, refreshing water. He leads them to green pastures. He protects them from the mountain lion, the bear, and the wolf. He develops strategies to fend off predators that would harm or kill them. His clothing and his food come from them, almost exclusively. Frankly, I don't know how a person can live with sheep, and share so much, (sheep are capable of communicating very well), and then kill them and eat them. I guess it's just a matter of survival...
I let the Good Shepherd lead me. It seems to me that you've got to "Let go and let God" in your life, for things to really work. Yes. We always want control...and we want what is convenient...and safe...and comfortable...and familiar.
But to allow the Good Shepherd to guide and lead us is to experience adventure, a powerful and very helpful change in priorities for us. Let the Good Shepherd take control. Let the Good Shepherd have sway. Let the Good Shepherd speak to your heart about the reason you were born and the purpose in your existence. God bless us all in these difficult days. We are in the Lord's hands. However, be safe, be healthy, be available, be well. You are precious in His sight! Cordially, Tom
From Rev Sue Ann Yarbrough
This week, it has been a blessing for me to be with some of you either via Zoom, or physically distanced on a patio or parking lot. I am continually amazed at how we human beings can adjust when circumstances are less than perfect. However, let's face it; we seldom have perfect situations. Perfection is God's realm. We simply adjust and continue to try to follow God's instructions and God's love as best we can. Thank you all for the numerous ways you have adjusted in this past year. Truly amazing.
Knowledge can be found just about everywhere. Wisdom, however, is deeper. It must be lived. God gives each of us our "starter wisdom," but it is up to us to learn from our lives and develop our wisdom. If we disregard wisdom, we cannot live fully into the person God is calling us to be. The world needs more people exploring their wisdom and living by what they are learning. That is how we become fully human. That is how we learn to live in balance with the world.
Please do not disregard your gift of Wisdom. It is your divine inheritance, and I believe God takes great delight to see his children live wisely. Yes, God takes great delight in us, so let us show our gratitude by loving this life and one another. That is how we can show God our love. Prayer Holy God, we thank you for sharing your gifts of wisdom with us. May we not disregard such a wondrous gift, but rather claim it and make it our own. Today is Earth Day. Our prayer is that humans will learn to live on this earth wisely. May we tend to the earth with love, and leave a beautiful inheritance for those who come after us. We thank you for the progress being made during this pandemic. We pray that the world will know peace and good health. Help us to take care of one another and ourselves. In Gratitude we pray, Amen -- Rev. Sue Ann Yarbrough, Associate Pastor San Lorenzo Community Church, United Church of Christ www.slzchurch.org www.hearthpsalms.blogspot.com
"...reason is the enemy of faith..." (Martin Luther)
[We need reason to comprehend things in general, but to be truly successful in life, a person must transcend reason...to deal adequately with the wide range of challenges in a real day-to-day life.] "...beating yourself on your head over the consequences of sinning is not Gospel-centered living..." (William Holland) "...be a sinner and sin boldly, but more strongly have faith and and rejoice in Christ..." (Martin Luther) [Thanks, Brother Marty! Do not wallow in negativity. Be human. Enjoy life. Be grateful for God's grace. Nobody's perfect, not even y'all out there! Enjoy, Savor!] "...then you, my people, will know that I am the Lord, when I open your graves and bring you up from them...I will put my Spirit in you and you will live...then you will know that I, the Lord, have spoken, and I will have done it, declares the Lord..." (Ezekiel 37:13-14) [The Word doesn't get more powerful than this...] "...above all the grace and the gifts that Christ gives to all those He loves is that of overcoming self..." (Francis of Assisi) "...depression is when something in your life has become more important than God..." (Dr. Jonathan Haidt) "...you should not believe your conscience and your feelings more than the Word which the Lord who receives sinners preaches to you..." (Martin Luther) Prayer Gracious God, we want to thank you today for your abiding presence in our lives. Often, we figure we know the score...that is...what's happening in our lives. Sometimes we feel we have overcome our human condition and we don't need you anymore...when...all of sudden...we comprehend in the everyday situations of life that we are overwhelmed...or that we simply haven't understood what we've gotten ourselves into. You provide pleasant circumstances for us --- and in a growing spiritual maturity --- we recognize that unpleasant situations in our lives are necessary to keep us on the straight-and-narrow, as well as, within a divine broadening perspective. We are going to walk with you and know that in all things you will provide abundantly for us, and those we pray for, and those who we can assist in their journey. In short, we commend ourselves into your care and keeping. We know that whatever happens you are there for us and you will reveal your goodness in our behalf. In Jesus' name. Amen. The Message The message for this Sunday will fall in line with the "live" return to the Bible Study at 9:45 a.m. in Pacifica, which began five years ago and ceased one year ago with our final remarks about the Prophet Jeremiah. The pandemic took over from there up until the present. I've come to the conclusion that we cannot understand the New Testament until we have thoroughly experienced and understood the Old Testament. Marcion, theologian of the fourth century A.D., was wrong. We cannot dispense with the rich settings of the Old Testament, the Hebrew Bible, in light of having the New Testament. Some folks, tongue in cheek, suggest that we preachers are really heretics because we normally only teach and preach from "four books" of the Holy Bible. The attempt here is to focus in upon revelation that has had a powerful spiritual impact upon God's people for 2,607 years. Let's start to examine and come to terms with "Ezekiel on Steroids" in preparation for the Bible Study series that begins today. Many Bible students need something in writing, along with a specific focus that will create "mind pictures" and study helps that will leave an impression for years of blessing to come. Let's start this way... Is Ezekiel a true prophet of Yahweh?
Now turn to "Lamentations" to get the full effect of the destruction of Jerusalem. So we note three prophetic voices for God's people in this section of the Bible. Daniel was first to arrive in Babylon way before Ezekiel. Ezekiel, by the time Jerusalem was leveled, had been in Babylon for twelve years. AND...Jeremiah was in Jerusalem to witness the destruction wrought by the King.
The message for me is...God covers "all the bases" when He needs to direct people to live by His Word...the destruction of Jerusalem was not an accident, nor was it a means to punish God's people, as much as it was a "divine intervention" to save the people from their own rulers...and from themselves... [It's not our purpose to go elsewhere at this point, but, did you know, that God's people lost the Torah, the Pentateuch, the Five Books of Moses, including the Ten Commandments, for eight-hundred years? These sacred works were recovered in 622 B.C. during the reign of King Josiah, but, after several years of spiritual revival, the people returned to their old corrupt ways. God needed to finally do something about it, so He used the enemy of God's people to disengage the appearance of holiness and decency, and calls Nebuchadnezzar "my servant". Just for future reference, please note 2 Kings 22:1-20...note also the confusing, head-scratching passage in 1 Samuel 3:1-7 from circa 1000 B.C.] Meanwhile... In my translation of the text, it is written, "The Glory Departs From the Temple". Ezekiel 10:18 This was to all appearance perhaps the greatest tragedy of all Scripture... other than the picture we may have of the Lord Jesus Christ on the cross. However, we need to envision beyond appearance. Often it's hard to do when we witness the terrible things that can happen on planet earth... especially when it affects us in a very personal way... Saint Paul says about this, "...and we know in all things God works for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose..." (Romans 8:28)
So...in retrospect...you may understand why I think Ezekiel 33:21 is so very important in interpreting the Bible... 586 B.C. God's people would be called "Jews" for the first time in human history (Jeremiah 32:12c). This is because Israel was defeated and scattered in 721 B.C., leaving only "Judah" to exist as a nation. Evidently the people were called "Jews" as a shortened form of some name that identified them. The name and form of the religion would change. The name of the religion from the time of Abraham up until the destruction of Jerusalem was "Yahwism", after "Yahweh", the correct name of the God of the Bible. With the radically new central focus upon the Scriptures and the development of the Synagogue the new religion would be called Judaism. The Northern Kingdom, Israel, had been long gone by that time, Judaism became the religion of the people of the Southern Kingdom, Judah. The religion would change in form.
The God of the people would remain the same. "I AM THAT I AM" ...that is to say...Yahweh. In succeeding messages we'll focus in upon the colorful language and images of Ezekiel's prophesy meant to leave a permanent mark upon our hearts and minds. We'll ask the question, "What's going on here?" and answer that question several times over. Best wishes to all of us as we take on Ezekiel on Steroids. Blessings! Cordially, Tom |
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