12 Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.’ John 8:12
Toward the end of Advent we marked the winter solstice, when the darkness stops taking over our days and light begins to reappear. It also coincided with the Blue Christmas worship that we held at All Saints. Other churches have similar worship times, as a way to remember the losses that we have experienced, and to acknowledge that often the holidays are a mixed bag of emotion.
Now, we are reminded of Jesus' words and promise as the light of the world -- and the light of life. Even in our darkest moments, Jesus is there, shining forth for us, lighting our way.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Wednesday
37And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake.’ Mark 13:37
Perhaps we're all feeling a little sleepy these days -- either from a lack of activity, too many cookies (ahem), or the frenzied activity of visiting and traveling. And yet Jesus says, "Keep awake!"
Now this verse addressed the next coming -- we don't know when that day will come. But in these days post- Christmas, when we've packed away most of the holiday cheer and the needles from the tree aren't the only things getting on our nerves, perhaps we should awaken again to see Jesus in our midst. Keep awake, for you don't know when you'll see Jesus. Keep awake, for you don't know when you'll witness the miracle of goodwill between children, siblings even! Keep awake, for you don't know when you'll have the chance to bring the gospel to someone who desperately needs it today, in the form of a smile, a kind word, a smidgen of grace when you thought it might be all gone.
Keep awake,
Pastor Jenn
Perhaps we're all feeling a little sleepy these days -- either from a lack of activity, too many cookies (ahem), or the frenzied activity of visiting and traveling. And yet Jesus says, "Keep awake!"
Now this verse addressed the next coming -- we don't know when that day will come. But in these days post- Christmas, when we've packed away most of the holiday cheer and the needles from the tree aren't the only things getting on our nerves, perhaps we should awaken again to see Jesus in our midst. Keep awake, for you don't know when you'll see Jesus. Keep awake, for you don't know when you'll witness the miracle of goodwill between children, siblings even! Keep awake, for you don't know when you'll have the chance to bring the gospel to someone who desperately needs it today, in the form of a smile, a kind word, a smidgen of grace when you thought it might be all gone.
Keep awake,
Pastor Jenn
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Tuesday
8Now therefore in the sight of all Israel, the assembly of the Lord, and in the hearing of our God, observe and search out all the commandments of the Lord your God; that you may possess this good land, and leave it for an inheritance to your children after you for ever. 1 Chronicles 28:8
King David is in the midst of giving a speech about what he wasn't able to accomplish -- mainly because God had different plans for him -- and what his son Solomon will do, when we read this verse. I would guess, from what I know about David, that he would have liked to have done more, that he would have liked to have built the temple, the sanctuary for God. But as a man of faith who listened to God, he respected that building the resting place for the ark of the covenant was not for him to do.
And so the task passes on to the next generation. We might not be in the business, as a church, of passing on land to those who come after us, but we are given many things that we are to leave for those who come next -- our faith, our hope, our heritage, our songs. I give thanks for the inheritance of faith that we have received from our ancestors, and I give thanks for the passing of these gifts that I see taking place around me.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
King David is in the midst of giving a speech about what he wasn't able to accomplish -- mainly because God had different plans for him -- and what his son Solomon will do, when we read this verse. I would guess, from what I know about David, that he would have liked to have done more, that he would have liked to have built the temple, the sanctuary for God. But as a man of faith who listened to God, he respected that building the resting place for the ark of the covenant was not for him to do.
And so the task passes on to the next generation. We might not be in the business, as a church, of passing on land to those who come after us, but we are given many things that we are to leave for those who come next -- our faith, our hope, our heritage, our songs. I give thanks for the inheritance of faith that we have received from our ancestors, and I give thanks for the passing of these gifts that I see taking place around me.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Monday, December 28, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Monday
13 Now after they had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, ‘Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.’ Matthew 2:13
Sometime early in Advent I sifted through a file in my office labeled simply "Art." Through the years, I've clipped images from magazines, bulletin covers, postcards, calendars and tucked them into this file folder. I go through it occasionally, as a devotional practice. I re-discovered this past season an image of the holy family fleeing. They're portrayed loosely, and both Mary and Joseph have their heads turned as if looking behind them; Mary clutches the bundle I presume to be Jesus closely.
It's not the typical image that I carry with me of the holy family. More often I imagine them as they're seen in so many nativity sets, resting in adoration. This angel that comes to Joseph, though, sets them in motion again -- and in haste they go, go, go. I held that image in my mind during the season preparation, knowing as we must, what comes next. And while the family was fleeing from Herod, from a certain death, they were headed for safety, and they were headed for respite.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Sometime early in Advent I sifted through a file in my office labeled simply "Art." Through the years, I've clipped images from magazines, bulletin covers, postcards, calendars and tucked them into this file folder. I go through it occasionally, as a devotional practice. I re-discovered this past season an image of the holy family fleeing. They're portrayed loosely, and both Mary and Joseph have their heads turned as if looking behind them; Mary clutches the bundle I presume to be Jesus closely.
It's not the typical image that I carry with me of the holy family. More often I imagine them as they're seen in so many nativity sets, resting in adoration. This angel that comes to Joseph, though, sets them in motion again -- and in haste they go, go, go. I held that image in my mind during the season preparation, knowing as we must, what comes next. And while the family was fleeing from Herod, from a certain death, they were headed for safety, and they were headed for respite.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Friday, December 25, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Christmas Day
A message from Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson
"But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us..." (Titus 3:4-5a).
Into this shadowed world light shines and joyous voices sing. Glad tidings cheer the heart and liberate hope. "A child has been born for us, a son given to us" (Isaiah 9:6). God our Savior has appeared!
God's saving goodness and loving kindness have arrived in Jesus, the Word made flesh. Though hidden in the humility of a manger, and later in the scandal of the cross, God's promise is being made good in plain sight for all to see, in a life of generous mercy, richly poured out for all.
"See, your salvation comes," the prophet wrote (Isaiah 62:11). God's faithfulness to God's promises calls us to a new hope, for the hope of eternal life is an inheritance that we can enjoy today in lives of generosity and compassion, joy and peace.
Merry Christmas from Pastors Jenn and Seth
Remember that this Sunday (December 27) we will have only one worship service, at 10 am.
"But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us..." (Titus 3:4-5a).
Into this shadowed world light shines and joyous voices sing. Glad tidings cheer the heart and liberate hope. "A child has been born for us, a son given to us" (Isaiah 9:6). God our Savior has appeared!
God's saving goodness and loving kindness have arrived in Jesus, the Word made flesh. Though hidden in the humility of a manger, and later in the scandal of the cross, God's promise is being made good in plain sight for all to see, in a life of generous mercy, richly poured out for all.
"See, your salvation comes," the prophet wrote (Isaiah 62:11). God's faithfulness to God's promises calls us to a new hope, for the hope of eternal life is an inheritance that we can enjoy today in lives of generosity and compassion, joy and peace.
Merry Christmas from Pastors Jenn and Seth
Remember that this Sunday (December 27) we will have only one worship service, at 10 am.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Christmas Eve
Almighty God,
you made this holy night shine with the brightness of the true Light.
Grant that here on earth we may walk in the light of Jesus' presence
and in the last day wake to the brightness of his glory;
through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and forever.
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
Join us tonight as we celebrate the birth of the Christ-child. 3:00 Family Worship and 5 and 11 Holy Communion with candlelight "Silent Night." Preservice music before each. If you are able, please park outside our lot or at the outskirts to leave room for visitors and those who are not able to walk far distances.
you made this holy night shine with the brightness of the true Light.
Grant that here on earth we may walk in the light of Jesus' presence
and in the last day wake to the brightness of his glory;
through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and forever.
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
Join us tonight as we celebrate the birth of the Christ-child. 3:00 Family Worship and 5 and 11 Holy Communion with candlelight "Silent Night." Preservice music before each. If you are able, please park outside our lot or at the outskirts to leave room for visitors and those who are not able to walk far distances.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Wednesday
Micah 4:6 On that day, says the Lord,
I will assemble the lame
and gather those who have been driven away,
and those whom I have afflicted.
We all have our dreams of the perfect Christmas. I'm dreaming of a white Christmas. I'm dreaming of singing "Silent Night" in German. I'm dreaming of eating more cookies than any human being not named Santa should eat on any one night.
Micah had a vision of a perfect Christmas too, though he didn't call it that. Micah's vision of a perfect celebration of the Lord's coming sounds to me something like an awards banquet at the Special Olympics crossed with a night at our PADS shelter. That'd be pretty cool. So Micah's vision of the Lord's coming looks something like a standard week here at All Saints. Thanks be to God for the ways that you live into this vision of the Lord's coming.
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
Join us to celebrate the birth of the Christ child tomorrow (Thursday) at 3, 5, and 11. 3:00 Family Worship, 5 and 11 Holy Communion with candlelight. Preservice music before each.
I will assemble the lame
and gather those who have been driven away,
and those whom I have afflicted.
We all have our dreams of the perfect Christmas. I'm dreaming of a white Christmas. I'm dreaming of singing "Silent Night" in German. I'm dreaming of eating more cookies than any human being not named Santa should eat on any one night.
Micah had a vision of a perfect Christmas too, though he didn't call it that. Micah's vision of a perfect celebration of the Lord's coming sounds to me something like an awards banquet at the Special Olympics crossed with a night at our PADS shelter. That'd be pretty cool. So Micah's vision of the Lord's coming looks something like a standard week here at All Saints. Thanks be to God for the ways that you live into this vision of the Lord's coming.
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
Join us to celebrate the birth of the Christ child tomorrow (Thursday) at 3, 5, and 11. 3:00 Family Worship, 5 and 11 Holy Communion with candlelight. Preservice music before each.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Tuesday
Micah 4:3-4 He shall judge between many peoples,
and shall arbitrate between strong nations far away;
they shall beat their swords into ploughshares,
and their spears into pruning-hooks;
nation shall not lift up sword against nation,
neither shall they learn war any more;
but they shall all sit under their own vines and under their own fig trees,
and no one shall make them afraid;
for the mouth of the Lord of hosts has spoken.
E'en so, Lord Jesus, quickly come!
Show us your justice between nations and peoples.
Help us to beat our swords into ploughshares, our Predator drones into fertilizer planes.
Show us how to put the swords away forever; teach us something other than war.
Give us each a vine and a fig tree, a safe place to eat and be satisfied, not looking over the hill to see whose fig tree looks bigger.
Banish fear forever.
E'en so, Lord Jesus, quickly come!
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
Join us as we celebrate the birth of the Christ child with three Christmas Eve services: 3:00 family service, 5 and 11 Holy Communion candlelit services, with preservice music before each.
and shall arbitrate between strong nations far away;
they shall beat their swords into ploughshares,
and their spears into pruning-hooks;
nation shall not lift up sword against nation,
neither shall they learn war any more;
but they shall all sit under their own vines and under their own fig trees,
and no one shall make them afraid;
for the mouth of the Lord of hosts has spoken.
E'en so, Lord Jesus, quickly come!
Show us your justice between nations and peoples.
Help us to beat our swords into ploughshares, our Predator drones into fertilizer planes.
Show us how to put the swords away forever; teach us something other than war.
Give us each a vine and a fig tree, a safe place to eat and be satisfied, not looking over the hill to see whose fig tree looks bigger.
Banish fear forever.
E'en so, Lord Jesus, quickly come!
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
Join us as we celebrate the birth of the Christ child with three Christmas Eve services: 3:00 family service, 5 and 11 Holy Communion candlelit services, with preservice music before each.
Monday, December 21, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Monday
Genesis 25:27-28 When the boys grew up, Esau was a skilful hunter, a man of the field, while Jacob was a quiet man, living in tents. Isaac loved Esau, because he was fond of game; but Rebekah loved Jacob.
Stephen Colbert is one of my favorite comedians. Not one of my favorite parenting experts. But in a chapter of his book on parenting he recommends that all parents should have a favorite child, and they should tell their children they have a favorite. But they shouldn't say which one. This keeps the kids guessing. Again... not probably the best parenting advice, but pretty funny in my opinion. Maybe Isaac and Rebekah should have been a little more secretive about their favorites. Maybe then Esau and Jacob wouldn't have grown up to rival one another so much, and lots of problems later could have been avoided.
In this week of family gatherings, we all know that the "Hallmark" picture of family gatherings isn't always true. Sometimes there are forced smiles, subjects to be avoided, or people to be outright ignored. One reason Jacob and Esau had so many problems later in life is that they got confused: they thought that their parents favor equaled God's favor, that God loved them the most. So remember this week: God sent His Son for everyone. For you and for me. And for your crazy Uncle Buck. All the same.
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
If this Christmas season is one marked by sadness and mourning for you, gather with others for our Blue Christmas worship service tonight (Monday) at 7 pm.
Stephen Colbert is one of my favorite comedians. Not one of my favorite parenting experts. But in a chapter of his book on parenting he recommends that all parents should have a favorite child, and they should tell their children they have a favorite. But they shouldn't say which one. This keeps the kids guessing. Again... not probably the best parenting advice, but pretty funny in my opinion. Maybe Isaac and Rebekah should have been a little more secretive about their favorites. Maybe then Esau and Jacob wouldn't have grown up to rival one another so much, and lots of problems later could have been avoided.
In this week of family gatherings, we all know that the "Hallmark" picture of family gatherings isn't always true. Sometimes there are forced smiles, subjects to be avoided, or people to be outright ignored. One reason Jacob and Esau had so many problems later in life is that they got confused: they thought that their parents favor equaled God's favor, that God loved them the most. So remember this week: God sent His Son for everyone. For you and for me. And for your crazy Uncle Buck. All the same.
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
If this Christmas season is one marked by sadness and mourning for you, gather with others for our Blue Christmas worship service tonight (Monday) at 7 pm.
Friday, December 18, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Friday
Hebrews 10:35-36
35Do not, therefore, abandon that confidence of yours; it brings a great reward. 36For you need endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised.
In this final stretch of Advent, how's your endurance? Are you ready for this whole blessed season to be over so we can get to Christmas and open presents and then put everything away and return to normal? Have you forgotten the little bits of magic you found when you first opened the box of ornaments or turned on the lights outside? How's your confidence that Jesus will be born and we will raise our voices in songs of praise of hope for the world, again?
During this season, remember that God will not abandon you -- have confidence in that. Remember that our waiting comes with great hope, great expectation, and ultimately great promise. Find your endurance waning? Light the candles, center yourself with prayer, dip into the well of worship, and remember God's promises for your life.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
35Do not, therefore, abandon that confidence of yours; it brings a great reward. 36For you need endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised.
In this final stretch of Advent, how's your endurance? Are you ready for this whole blessed season to be over so we can get to Christmas and open presents and then put everything away and return to normal? Have you forgotten the little bits of magic you found when you first opened the box of ornaments or turned on the lights outside? How's your confidence that Jesus will be born and we will raise our voices in songs of praise of hope for the world, again?
During this season, remember that God will not abandon you -- have confidence in that. Remember that our waiting comes with great hope, great expectation, and ultimately great promise. Find your endurance waning? Light the candles, center yourself with prayer, dip into the well of worship, and remember God's promises for your life.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Thursday, December 17, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Thursday
Hebrews 10:14
14For by a single offering [Jesus Christ] has perfected for all time those who are sanctified.
I know that I'm a long ways from being perfect in any and all human ways. Knowing that, and living with that reality, means that a verse like this one humbles me to no end. Through our baptism, we have been made holy -- and through Christ's saving offering, we have been perfected.
Wow. I'm going to let that one sink in a little while.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
14For by a single offering [Jesus Christ] has perfected for all time those who are sanctified.
I know that I'm a long ways from being perfect in any and all human ways. Knowing that, and living with that reality, means that a verse like this one humbles me to no end. Through our baptism, we have been made holy -- and through Christ's saving offering, we have been perfected.
Wow. I'm going to let that one sink in a little while.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Wednesday
Micah 4:11-13
11Now many nations
are assembled against you,
saying, ‘Let her be profaned,
and let our eyes gaze upon Zion.’
12But they do not know
the thoughts of the Lord;
they do not understand his plan,
that he has gathered them as sheaves to the threshing-floor.
13Arise and thresh,
O daughter Zion,
for I will make your horn iron
and your hoofs bronze;
you shall beat in pieces many peoples,
and shall* devote their gain to the Lord,
their wealth to the Lord of the whole earth.
There is a theme in the assigned readings of these days leading to Christmas, a theme that I see of preparation and a theme of triumph. The song of Mary that we will read, also reflects the rising of the lowly and the mightiness of God. It can be difficult to read, though, these images of death and destruction to people -- even if they don't seem to be heeding the Lord's thoughts. Who am I, who are we, to know the thoughts of the Lord?
What I do take from these verses, however, are words of comfort and strength for a nation. And always, always, the strength of God. Perhaps in these days of preparation, these days of feeling very small, that is the message that comes most clearly -- the strength is in God, the power is with the Lord.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Thoughts? Visit http://aslcdevotions.blogspot.com/ to share them.
11Now many nations
are assembled against you,
saying, ‘Let her be profaned,
and let our eyes gaze upon Zion.’
12But they do not know
the thoughts of the Lord;
they do not understand his plan,
that he has gathered them as sheaves to the threshing-floor.
13Arise and thresh,
O daughter Zion,
for I will make your horn iron
and your hoofs bronze;
you shall beat in pieces many peoples,
and shall* devote their gain to the Lord,
their wealth to the Lord of the whole earth.
There is a theme in the assigned readings of these days leading to Christmas, a theme that I see of preparation and a theme of triumph. The song of Mary that we will read, also reflects the rising of the lowly and the mightiness of God. It can be difficult to read, though, these images of death and destruction to people -- even if they don't seem to be heeding the Lord's thoughts. Who am I, who are we, to know the thoughts of the Lord?
What I do take from these verses, however, are words of comfort and strength for a nation. And always, always, the strength of God. Perhaps in these days of preparation, these days of feeling very small, that is the message that comes most clearly -- the strength is in God, the power is with the Lord.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Thoughts? Visit http://aslcdevotions.blogspot.com/ to share them.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
New Online Bible Study starting
Season of Epiphany Online Bible Study
Start your new year off right, with Bible Study. This group is for all of you want to study and discuss the Bible, but can't quite commit to regular attendance at a Sunday morning or Thursday morning or Wednesday evening group. This study will begin on the day of Epiphany (Wednesday, January 6) and will end on Transfiguration Sunday (February 14). Obviously, if it's going well, we'll continue with another session, but that is the outline of this session. We'll be studying 1 Corinthians chapters 12-14 which talk about spiritual gifts and love. Those who sign up for the group at http://bookoffaith.ning.com/group/allsaintspalatine (yes, you'll have to sign up for an account there, but there are some really cool tools) will be able to read a brief update or comment each day with a question or two to ponder. Those who sign up are committing to check the site at least once a day during that time and to respond each day with at least one sentence. If you have any questions, email pastorseth@allsaintspalatine.org
Lenten Devotional Being Prepared
This message was sent last week. There are still a few slots open, so just in case you forgot to respond or have given it some thought, here it is again!
Hi all.
Your help is needed.
Do you ever read these daily devotionals and think, "I've got something to say too?"
Do you ever wonder why Pastor Seth and Pastor Jenn get to have all the fun of writing these messages?
Do you have something to share?
I'm sure that you do, whether you know it or not.
So, we are preparing a Lenten devotional booklet for All Saints written by the people of All Saints.
If you should decide to put your name on the writer's list, you will get:
Hi all.
Your help is needed.
Do you ever read these daily devotionals and think, "I've got something to say too?"
Do you ever wonder why Pastor Seth and Pastor Jenn get to have all the fun of writing these messages?
Do you have something to share?
I'm sure that you do, whether you know it or not.
So, we are preparing a Lenten devotional booklet for All Saints written by the people of All Saints.
If you should decide to put your name on the writer's list, you will get:
- an assigned biblical text (usually 6-10 verses)
- a deadline (in early January)
- instructions and guidance, as much as you'd like.
Write your thoughts about what these passages are saying to you. What do they make you think of? What do you learn about God from them? What do you learn about yourself from them? Use the booklets "Christ in our Home" or the daily email devotionals as inspiration. But make it your own. Share your thoughts with your sisters and brothers.
Finally submit the following via email: your key verses, 250-350 word reflection, and how you would like your name to be printed.
These will be printed together in a booklet for our congregation, the booklet will be made into a pdf and put on our congregation's website, and the devotions will be emailed as part of our daily email devotional plan for the season of Lent 2010.
If you would be willing to share your thoughts and to help us create this project, please respond via email to pastorseth@allsaintspalatine.org
ASLC Devotions -- Tuesday
Isaiah 11:6-9
6The wolf shall live with the lamb,
the leopard shall lie down with the kid,
the calf and the lion and the fatling together,
and a little child shall lead them.
7The cow and the bear shall graze,
their young shall lie down together;
and the lion shall eat straw like the ox.
8The nursing child shall play over the hole of the asp,
and the weaned child shall put its hand on the adder’s den.
9They will not hurt or destroy
on all my holy mountain;
for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord
as the waters cover the sea.
We have a dog that has, to put it mildly, a lot of energy. Those who have met Woody the Puggle have experienced his exuberance for being part of God's creation. I walked into our living room the other morning just in time to see our son tackle the dog. I gasped in anticipation that the scene would end poorly for all involved. Imagine my shock when the dog simply rolled out of the way, and then sat very, very still as our son gently stroked both of his ears.
I don't think the early-morning scene was a sign of Christ's coming, but it gave me a tender moment to witness gentleness and coexistence, as well as maybe a little bit of grace. The calf and the lion are not supposed to live together, the wolf and the lamb have designated places in the pecking order -- places that don't involved coexistence. But the branch that grows from Jesse's roots -- the One whom we call Messiah, Lord, Savior, Jesus the Christ -- changes all of that. Where do you witness that grace and that coexistence? And how can we continue to pray that into reality?
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Respond, ask your own questions... http://aslcdevotions.blogspot.com/
6The wolf shall live with the lamb,
the leopard shall lie down with the kid,
the calf and the lion and the fatling together,
and a little child shall lead them.
7The cow and the bear shall graze,
their young shall lie down together;
and the lion shall eat straw like the ox.
8The nursing child shall play over the hole of the asp,
and the weaned child shall put its hand on the adder’s den.
9They will not hurt or destroy
on all my holy mountain;
for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord
as the waters cover the sea.
We have a dog that has, to put it mildly, a lot of energy. Those who have met Woody the Puggle have experienced his exuberance for being part of God's creation. I walked into our living room the other morning just in time to see our son tackle the dog. I gasped in anticipation that the scene would end poorly for all involved. Imagine my shock when the dog simply rolled out of the way, and then sat very, very still as our son gently stroked both of his ears.
I don't think the early-morning scene was a sign of Christ's coming, but it gave me a tender moment to witness gentleness and coexistence, as well as maybe a little bit of grace. The calf and the lion are not supposed to live together, the wolf and the lamb have designated places in the pecking order -- places that don't involved coexistence. But the branch that grows from Jesse's roots -- the One whom we call Messiah, Lord, Savior, Jesus the Christ -- changes all of that. Where do you witness that grace and that coexistence? And how can we continue to pray that into reality?
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Respond, ask your own questions... http://aslcdevotions.blogspot.com/
Monday, December 14, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Monday
Numbers 16:12-14
12 Moses sent for Dathan and Abiram sons of Eliab; but they said, ‘We will not come! 13Is it too little that you have brought us up out of a land flowing with milk and honey to kill us in the wilderness, that you must also lord it over us? 14It is clear you have not brought us into a land flowing with milk and honey, or given us an inheritance of fields and vineyards. Would you put out the eyes of these men? We will not come!’
When the Israelites leave captivity in Egypt, the land they enter leaves much to be desired in their mind -- as does the leadership of Moses and Aaron. The people whine, a lot, and they seem convinced that the land is not as Moses has promised. What the people seem to forget, however, is that it's not really about Moses and Aaron.
The Lord speaks to Moses repeatedly, giving him the message for the people that this land is land that the Lord is giving unto the people. It's a pretty common human mistake, I think, to forget that the Lord is speaking. What ends up happening to the band of folks who have turned away from listening to God's word? In verse 31 and beyond we learn that the earth actually opened up and swallowed them with all of their households and goods. The land around us might not appear to be flowing with milk or honey, and we might feel that we'll die in this wilderness, but it's always a good reminder to listen to the Lord.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Questions? Thoughts? Just want to share? http://aslcdevotions.blogspot.com/
12 Moses sent for Dathan and Abiram sons of Eliab; but they said, ‘We will not come! 13Is it too little that you have brought us up out of a land flowing with milk and honey to kill us in the wilderness, that you must also lord it over us? 14It is clear you have not brought us into a land flowing with milk and honey, or given us an inheritance of fields and vineyards. Would you put out the eyes of these men? We will not come!’
When the Israelites leave captivity in Egypt, the land they enter leaves much to be desired in their mind -- as does the leadership of Moses and Aaron. The people whine, a lot, and they seem convinced that the land is not as Moses has promised. What the people seem to forget, however, is that it's not really about Moses and Aaron.
The Lord speaks to Moses repeatedly, giving him the message for the people that this land is land that the Lord is giving unto the people. It's a pretty common human mistake, I think, to forget that the Lord is speaking. What ends up happening to the band of folks who have turned away from listening to God's word? In verse 31 and beyond we learn that the earth actually opened up and swallowed them with all of their households and goods. The land around us might not appear to be flowing with milk or honey, and we might feel that we'll die in this wilderness, but it's always a good reminder to listen to the Lord.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Questions? Thoughts? Just want to share? http://aslcdevotions.blogspot.com/
Friday, December 11, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Friday
2 Corinthians 9:11 You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, which will produce thanksgiving to God through us
I just want to use today's message to say thank you.
I am thankful to each of you for your generosity to the ministry that happens in and through All Saints.
I am thankful to God for your generosity... for your giving to support the "boring" things of our budget like a mortgage and and staff salaries. And for your giving to things like the recent Christmas Angels project, where you supported 28 families, more than ever before!
Thanks be to God!
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
To discuss this passage and others, visit http://aslcdevotions.blogspot.com. Remember to join us for our special cantata presentation and Communion worship this Sunday at 8:30 and 11.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Thursday
2 Corinthians 8:13-14 I do not mean that there should be relief for others and pressure on you, but it is a question of a fair balance between your present abundance and their need, so that their abundance may be for your need, in order that there may be a fair balance.
Paul was writing to the Corinthians about the collection for the church in Jerusalem that needed the support of sisters and brothers in Christ around the world. But I want you to think about this slightly differently this morning: where is your abundance? And it's not fair (and untrue) to say... nothing. Has God blessed you with financial abundance? Has God blessed you with an abundance of musical talent? Has God blessed you with an abundance of time? Where specifically is your abundance?
Next question: where do you see a need in that same area? It may be in some ministry here at All Saints. It may be in your PTA or your neighborhood association. But where do you see a need that matches with your abundance? That's what Paul is talking about... God always provides an abundance to match every need. Our calling as Christians is to make the matches. Thanks be to God for all the ways in which you share your abundance!
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
To discuss this passage and others, visit http://aslcdevotions.blogspot.com. Remember to join us for our special cantata presentation and Communion worship this Sunday at 8:30 and 11.
Paul was writing to the Corinthians about the collection for the church in Jerusalem that needed the support of sisters and brothers in Christ around the world. But I want you to think about this slightly differently this morning: where is your abundance? And it's not fair (and untrue) to say... nothing. Has God blessed you with financial abundance? Has God blessed you with an abundance of musical talent? Has God blessed you with an abundance of time? Where specifically is your abundance?
Next question: where do you see a need in that same area? It may be in some ministry here at All Saints. It may be in your PTA or your neighborhood association. But where do you see a need that matches with your abundance? That's what Paul is talking about... God always provides an abundance to match every need. Our calling as Christians is to make the matches. Thanks be to God for all the ways in which you share your abundance!
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
To discuss this passage and others, visit http://aslcdevotions.blogspot.com. Remember to join us for our special cantata presentation and Communion worship this Sunday at 8:30 and 11.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Wednesday
Psalm 126:1 When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion,*
we were like those who dream.
I love the yearning in this verse. I love the bare honesty that comes only from someone who has experienced deep pain and has also experienced the relief and the joy of restoration.
When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream.
When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, it was like some crazy dream.
When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, all of our dreams had come true.
When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we walked through the world in a haze... unsure whether we were really awake.
I am enough of a cynic and a grumpy old man inside to get pretty tired of all the Hallmark commercials this time of year with the kids staring wide-eyed at Santa around the tree. But... that joy of Christmas can be a sign for us of something much bigger: a sign of the joy and the wonder with which we can look at the world and our lives and see all that God has done. Because the Lord has restored our fortunes, and we are like those who dream.
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
There will NOT be Holden Evening Prayer this evening.
To discuss this passage and others, visit http://aslcdevotions.blogspot.com. Remember to join us for our special cantata presentation and Communion worship this Sunday at 8:30 and 11.
we were like those who dream.
I love the yearning in this verse. I love the bare honesty that comes only from someone who has experienced deep pain and has also experienced the relief and the joy of restoration.
When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream.
When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, it was like some crazy dream.
When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, all of our dreams had come true.
When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we walked through the world in a haze... unsure whether we were really awake.
I am enough of a cynic and a grumpy old man inside to get pretty tired of all the Hallmark commercials this time of year with the kids staring wide-eyed at Santa around the tree. But... that joy of Christmas can be a sign for us of something much bigger: a sign of the joy and the wonder with which we can look at the world and our lives and see all that God has done. Because the Lord has restored our fortunes, and we are like those who dream.
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
There will NOT be Holden Evening Prayer this evening.
To discuss this passage and others, visit http://aslcdevotions.blogspot.com. Remember to join us for our special cantata presentation and Communion worship this Sunday at 8:30 and 11.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Lenten Devotional Being Prepared
Hi all.
Your help is needed.
Do you ever read these daily devotionals and think, "I've got something to say too?"
Do you ever wonder why Pastor Seth and Pastor Jenn get to have all the fun of writing these messages?
Do you have something to share?
I'm sure that you do, whether you know it or not.
So, we are preparing a Lenten devotional booklet for All Saints written by the people of All Saints.
If you should decide to put your name on the writer's list, you will get:
Your help is needed.
Do you ever read these daily devotionals and think, "I've got something to say too?"
Do you ever wonder why Pastor Seth and Pastor Jenn get to have all the fun of writing these messages?
Do you have something to share?
I'm sure that you do, whether you know it or not.
So, we are preparing a Lenten devotional booklet for All Saints written by the people of All Saints.
If you should decide to put your name on the writer's list, you will get:
- an assigned biblical text (usually 6-10 verses)
- a deadline (in early January)
- instructions and guidance, as much as you'd like.
Write your thoughts about what these passages are saying to you. What do they make you think of? What do you learn about God from them? What do you learn about yourself from them? Use the booklets "Christ in our Home" or the daily email devotionals as inspiration. But make it your own. Share your thoughts with your sisters and brothers.
Finally submit the following via email: your key verses, 250-350 word reflection, and how you would like your name to be printed.
These will be printed together in a booklet for our congregation, the booklet will be made into a pdf and put on our congregation's website, and the devotions will be emailed as part of our daily email devotional plan for the season of Lent 2010.
If you would be willing to share your thoughts and to help us create this project, please respond via email to pastorseth@allsaintspalatine.org
ASLC Devotions -- Tuesday
Isaiah 19:23 On that day there will be a highway from Egypt to Assyria, and the Assyrian will come into Egypt, and the Egyptian into Assyria, and the Egyptians will worship with the Assyrians.
Do you ever get tired of people arguing and fighting and killing each other because they disagree about what God looks like, or what God wants them to do in the world? It's a particularly sore spot for me because talking about God is sort of, well, you know... my job. And I believe that God weeps when people's arrogance and condescension gets in the way of worship and praise.
The promise of God is that someday a superhighway with open road tolling will be built. And it will connect Egypt and Assyria. It will connect Chicago and Tehran. It will connect Rome and Wittenberg. It will connect Jerusalem and Mecca. And Christian will worship with Muslim. Sunni will worship with Shia. Jew will worship with Roman Catholic. Lutheran will worship with Anglican. Lutheran will worship with, well, other Lutheran. That's the promise of God. Come, Lord Jesus!
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
To discuss this passage and others, visit http://aslcdevotions.blogspot.com. Remember to join us for our special cantata presentation and Communion worship this Sunday at 8:30 and 11.
Do you ever get tired of people arguing and fighting and killing each other because they disagree about what God looks like, or what God wants them to do in the world? It's a particularly sore spot for me because talking about God is sort of, well, you know... my job. And I believe that God weeps when people's arrogance and condescension gets in the way of worship and praise.
The promise of God is that someday a superhighway with open road tolling will be built. And it will connect Egypt and Assyria. It will connect Chicago and Tehran. It will connect Rome and Wittenberg. It will connect Jerusalem and Mecca. And Christian will worship with Muslim. Sunni will worship with Shia. Jew will worship with Roman Catholic. Lutheran will worship with Anglican. Lutheran will worship with, well, other Lutheran. That's the promise of God. Come, Lord Jesus!
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
To discuss this passage and others, visit http://aslcdevotions.blogspot.com. Remember to join us for our special cantata presentation and Communion worship this Sunday at 8:30 and 11.
Monday, December 7, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Monday
Isaiah 40:11 He will feed his flock like a shepherd;
he will gather the lambs in his arms,
and carry them in his bosom,
and gently lead the mother sheep.
I love Advent. I love the waiting and the anticipation. I love the promise and the hope. There are days when the promise seems far off and the hope seems hard to cling to. There are days when it seems as though God will never come to feed us like a shepherd. There are days when all I do is hope for someone to gently lead me like a mother sheep.
Those days come all through the year. The yearning for a better future, for a more hopeful and just and Godly future isn't limited to these four weeks before Christmas. But in this season we are reminded of the promise. We are shown signs of the promise. We are reminded that, in a crying baby, God has already fulfilled the promise. And we are reminded that it is our job as Christians to pray 'Come, Lord Jesus.'
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
To discuss this passage and others, visit http://aslcdevotions.blogspot.com. Remember to join us for our special cantata presentation and Communion worship this Sunday at 8:30 and 11.
he will gather the lambs in his arms,
and carry them in his bosom,
and gently lead the mother sheep.
I love Advent. I love the waiting and the anticipation. I love the promise and the hope. There are days when the promise seems far off and the hope seems hard to cling to. There are days when it seems as though God will never come to feed us like a shepherd. There are days when all I do is hope for someone to gently lead me like a mother sheep.
Those days come all through the year. The yearning for a better future, for a more hopeful and just and Godly future isn't limited to these four weeks before Christmas. But in this season we are reminded of the promise. We are shown signs of the promise. We are reminded that, in a crying baby, God has already fulfilled the promise. And we are reminded that it is our job as Christians to pray 'Come, Lord Jesus.'
In Christ,
Pastor Seth
To discuss this passage and others, visit http://aslcdevotions.blogspot.com. Remember to join us for our special cantata presentation and Communion worship this Sunday at 8:30 and 11.
Friday, December 4, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Friday
From Paul's letter to the community at Philippi:
It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be put to shame in any way, but that by my speaking with all boldness, Christ will be exalted now as always in my body, whether by life or by death. (Philippians 1:20)
Amen.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be put to shame in any way, but that by my speaking with all boldness, Christ will be exalted now as always in my body, whether by life or by death. (Philippians 1:20)
Amen.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Thursday, December 3, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Thursday
Philippians 1:18a
18What does it matter? Just this, that Christ is proclaimed in every way, whether out of false motives or true; and in that I rejoice.
Paul has been imprisoned, and from that place writes that he knows some people proclaim Christ out of false motives -- motives that keep him imprisoned. And others, well, they make proclamations from a place of goodwill and love. What is amazing to me is that he rejoices regardless of the motives -- because of the proclamation of Christ.
I'm more inclined to rejoice in those things done and said from the place of goodwill and love. I often can't see beyond the false motives of envy or rivalry. And, yet, there's something to learn from rejoicing in all that proclaims Christ. These words from Paul will give me something to think about, that's for sure!
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Want to share what these words from Paul make you think about? Visit aslcdevotions.blogspot.com
18What does it matter? Just this, that Christ is proclaimed in every way, whether out of false motives or true; and in that I rejoice.
Paul has been imprisoned, and from that place writes that he knows some people proclaim Christ out of false motives -- motives that keep him imprisoned. And others, well, they make proclamations from a place of goodwill and love. What is amazing to me is that he rejoices regardless of the motives -- because of the proclamation of Christ.
I'm more inclined to rejoice in those things done and said from the place of goodwill and love. I often can't see beyond the false motives of envy or rivalry. And, yet, there's something to learn from rejoicing in all that proclaims Christ. These words from Paul will give me something to think about, that's for sure!
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Want to share what these words from Paul make you think about? Visit aslcdevotions.blogspot.com
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Wednesday
Psalm 90: 1-2
1Lord, you have been our dwelling-place*
in all generations.
2Before the mountains were brought forth,
or ever you had formed the earth and the world,
from everlasting to everlasting you are God.
We, as a people, tend to be a little short-sighted sometimes, especially when it comes to history. I often lose perspective and think this is either the greatest or the worst time, ever, forgetting about the triumphs or tragedies of the past. When we scan the past 100 years, or even more, we can gain some breathing space that might allow us to step back from whatever mountain sits on our desk or in our planner today.
I've preached and written a few times recently about re-focusing and remembering God in our daily lives. It can be difficult, I know, and often it's not long after I've hit "send" or stepped away from the pulpit that I slip back into despairing or worrying. So verses like these are good reminders, as are so many, that God is God from everlasting to everlasting. And, on those days when the hustle-bustle of the world is simply too much -- too many gifts to buy, too many bills to pay, too many appointment to meet (or forget) -- then the Lord is still our dwelling place.
Dwelling in the Lord,
Pastor Jenn
Share your own experiences of dwelling with the Lord, or experiencing God's everlasting presence at: www.aslcdevotions.blogspot.com
See you there!
1Lord, you have been our dwelling-place*
in all generations.
2Before the mountains were brought forth,
or ever you had formed the earth and the world,
from everlasting to everlasting you are God.
We, as a people, tend to be a little short-sighted sometimes, especially when it comes to history. I often lose perspective and think this is either the greatest or the worst time, ever, forgetting about the triumphs or tragedies of the past. When we scan the past 100 years, or even more, we can gain some breathing space that might allow us to step back from whatever mountain sits on our desk or in our planner today.
I've preached and written a few times recently about re-focusing and remembering God in our daily lives. It can be difficult, I know, and often it's not long after I've hit "send" or stepped away from the pulpit that I slip back into despairing or worrying. So verses like these are good reminders, as are so many, that God is God from everlasting to everlasting. And, on those days when the hustle-bustle of the world is simply too much -- too many gifts to buy, too many bills to pay, too many appointment to meet (or forget) -- then the Lord is still our dwelling place.
Dwelling in the Lord,
Pastor Jenn
Share your own experiences of dwelling with the Lord, or experiencing God's everlasting presence at: www.aslcdevotions.blogspot.com
See you there!
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
ASLC Devotions -- Tuesday
2 Samuel 7:18 and 28
18 Then King David went in and sat before the Lord, and said, ‘Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my house, that you have brought me thus far? ... 28And now, O Lord God, you are God, and your words are true, and you have promised this good thing to your servant;
In the preceding verses, God has promised to David (through a vision to Nathan) that his throne and his household will be established forever. These verses contain David's response, or prayer, to God. They are a bit similar to Mary's response to the angel when she learns that she'll be the mother to Jesus.
We could (and maybe do) spend a lot of time wondering "Who am I?" And whether we posit the question to the Lord or not, it can be a wandering lament or a sort of awe-struck statement, our focus is clearly on ourselves. For today, at least, my focus will be on the statement that David makes toward the end of his prayer: Lord God, you are God. Your words are true. You have promised this good thing to your servant. You are God. Your words are true.
God's words and promises are true. God is God, and I'm not.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Want to respond on the blog? Visit: www.aslcdevotions.blogspot.com
18 Then King David went in and sat before the Lord, and said, ‘Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my house, that you have brought me thus far? ... 28And now, O Lord God, you are God, and your words are true, and you have promised this good thing to your servant;
In the preceding verses, God has promised to David (through a vision to Nathan) that his throne and his household will be established forever. These verses contain David's response, or prayer, to God. They are a bit similar to Mary's response to the angel when she learns that she'll be the mother to Jesus.
We could (and maybe do) spend a lot of time wondering "Who am I?" And whether we posit the question to the Lord or not, it can be a wandering lament or a sort of awe-struck statement, our focus is clearly on ourselves. For today, at least, my focus will be on the statement that David makes toward the end of his prayer: Lord God, you are God. Your words are true. You have promised this good thing to your servant. You are God. Your words are true.
God's words and promises are true. God is God, and I'm not.
Peace,
Pastor Jenn
Want to respond on the blog? Visit: www.aslcdevotions.blogspot.com
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