Praying Saving Faith For All, Especially Those on My Heart!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

I recently received a call from a Christian friend.  This lady and I caught up a little, and then she shared the real reason for her calling.  She was concerned for a young man we both know and care about.  He has faced some life challenges. But what really concerned her was that, when she talked and listened to him, this young man told her that he was no longer a Christian believer.  She asked me to pray for him.  I am praying.

 

Considering what Scripture teaches, lack of faith in Jesus is concerning.  Most people know John 3:16, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”  Martin Luther called this verse “the Gospel in a nutshell,” teaching about the eternal love of God shown in the gift of His son, Jesus.  We receive eternal life ‘by faith’, through believing. However, many forget the next words of truth from Scripture in John 3:17-18.  “¹⁷ For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. ¹⁸ Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.”  God is so good and gracious and loving that, in order to save the world, He even sent His Son!  We are saved by grace, because of Jesus, as we believe in Him.  Yet, not believing rejects God’s gift of love, and can lose eternal life. 

 

Therefore, especially when we care about someone, we desire that they know God’s love for them, personally, in Jesus.  And, we are concerned when anyone, especially those whom we love, struggle with trusting our Lord.  That is one reason that my wife has often shared that her favorite Bible verse is 3 John 4.  “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”  Kathy desires God’s eternal love for those whom she loves.

 

I have shared before through these devotions that in my daily prayer list I have different categories for my prayers.  I pray for those who are seriously ill now, for those with cancer, and for those who are chronically ill.  I also pray for those with troubles, for our country, for God’s church, for families and for my family.  In the midst of all those prayers I also have a list of people whom I pray for, praying that they return to faith, or come to faith.  I looked closer at this list today.  There are 16 names, and of those people, 9 have faced a major loss or tragedy in recent years.  I understand their hurt, and their questions, at least in part. 

 

I too wonder at times about where God is in the losses and the tragedies of this life.  However, what I read in Scripture, and what I trust, is that our Lord is wise when we are confused.  I believe that God acts in wisdom and in love, even when I don’t understand.  Our Heavenly Father has especially shown His love in Jesus, and in His cross and empty tomb.  But sometimes life so painful that people also doubt, or they can even lose faith in God.

 

In my devotional Bible readings we are currently in the book of Hebrews.  The editor of this devotional has mentioned in recent devotions that there are 5 warnings in this book about falling away from a life of faith.  This epistle warns those in God’s church about the danger of falling away from the grace of God.  The writer cared about these believers and desired their eternal salvation.  His final blessing is “²⁰ Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, ²¹ equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.” (Hebrews 13:20-21)  He prays for their faith and their eternal welfare.

 

I also believe that the best witness to those who do not know our Lord’s grace, or who doubt the love of God, is not found in the correct words of a finely crafted argument.  My experience tells me that a life of faith and love may catch the attention of another person and lead them to ask the reason for the peace and hope a Christian has.  As Peter writes, “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15) A gentle and respectful example and answer can help someone who is struggling with faith.

 

Along with Kathy, my daily prayer for my immediate family is for “active Christian faith,” faith that Jesus acts in love and wisdom, faith that the life and death and resurrection of Jesus are God’s answer to all our failures and all of life’s hurts.

 

You may may rejoice to know that there are quite a number of folks for whom I have prayed in the past for their faith, who are no longer unbelievers, but who have returned to trusting God’s love and saving grace.  Praise the Lord!

 

What are you struggling with?  For whom are you praying?

 

A Child of God,  Praying Saving Faith for All, Especially Those on My Heart!

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  The 5 warnings of Hebrews - While the editor of my “Today’s Light Devotional Bible” has mentioned the 5 warnings of the book of Hebrews, I found a short summary on the internet (of all places).  “The five main warnings in the Book of Hebrews are: the danger of neglecting salvation (Hebrews 2:1–4), the danger of disobedience and unbelief (Hebrews 3:7–4:13), the danger of spiritual immaturity (Hebrews 5:11–6:20), the danger of deliberate, willful sin (Hebrews 10:19–31), and the danger of rejecting God's grace and discipline (Hebrews 12:25–29). These warnings are often summarized with the "D" words: Drifting, Doubting, Deformity (or immaturity), Despising, and Denying.”  

 

P.P.S.  I am now serving Our Redeemer Lutheran in Chugiak, AK, as part-time Vacancy Pastor. 

 

·       The Our Redeemer Call Committee includes Elder and chairman, Jerry Simpson, also Heidi Enlow, Ruth Keller, Theo Lee, Jacob Lewis, Scott Roelfs, and Martha Wilkins.  They have met numerous times. 

The first step in the call process has been to complete a congregational self-study.  The Northwest District has shared the study and tools to help in this study.  The committee has asked for and received input from ORLC for this study.  Jacob Lewis has compiled these survey to turn in to District.  Nomination forms for names for a new pastor have also been distributed.  We have about 8 names.

The self-study, and nominations for pastor, were indeed sent to the Northwest District by October 1, 2025. 

The last meeting was Friday evening, October 24.  The committee discussed questions to ask candidates when the congregation receives names from the Northwest District.

We are now waiting for the Northwest District to return names for possible future pastors for Our Redeemer.

 

OTHER EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES AT OUR REDEEMER:

 

·       There are two opportunities a week for exercise and wellness. 

o   Matt Keith leads Chayon Ryu Martial Arts Class on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:00 a.m. in the Our Redeemer Fellowship Hall

 

o   Matt then teaches a Elder Momentum Class, attended mostly by seniors, at 10:00 a.m. in the fellowship hall.

 

·       A “Mom’s Group” meets on the first and third Mondays at 10:30 a.m. at Our Redeemer.

 

·       An Adult Fellowship Potluck is held the first Tuesday of each month at 11:30 a.m.  In December this takes place at Bobby’s Café..

 

• Youth Group metes after worship on one Sunday each month.  On November 30 Youth Group will be a cooking class.

 

·       There are other events planned as well.  Watch the Our Redeemer calendar and newsletter for information.

 

Regular Bible Studies and Sunday School

 

·       Adult Bible Study continues on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m.   The class FINISHED studying “Basic Christian Teachings.” We will now be enjoying Bible Study’s based on Garrison Keillor monologues, specifically for holiday issues.   Come and join us!

 

·       Sunday School is held each Sunday beginning at 9:00 a.m.!  This is a blessing for ALL children and adults.   

 

·       “Deeply Rooted Small Group” Is held at Our Redeemer on the first and third Sunday evenings at 5:45 p.m.

 

·       Confirmation classes began on Sunday, October 12, after worship services.  Subsequent classes will be held on November 16 (this Sunday), 23, and December 7.  Watch for more information.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURES WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Wednesday, November 5, we read Hebrews 4.   

Feel free to contact Pastor Rockey at 907-841-4066 if you have any questions about these readings.  Or send an e-mail question to jonrock53@mtaonline.net  I have recently received questions and comments.  It is always good to consider our Lord’s love and guidance. I will TRY to answer, but some things only God knows!

 

P.P.P.S. Family Fun and Fishing!  - I tried to fish 3 times this past weekend.

 

·       On Friday, November 7, I drove north and looked for ice.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Zo4hxCMVsibH5Wnw7

 

·       On Saturday, November 8, drover north, and actually tried fishing at Knob Lake.   However, I caught no fish. Here are some pictures of this trip. https://photos.app.goo.gl/3PSnfbrcHi2v17Wx7

 

·       On Monday, November 10, I did find a safe lake and actually fished and caught fish for the first time this fall.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/6V3ZW4ZGAxbL7iuk7

 

·       We did see Northern Lights on Tuesday, November 11.  Somehow the I-phone camera makes the pictures even more spectacular.  But, here they are.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/F9PyScugYKFnaqFC6

 

 

 

*******

 

ABOUT THIS DEVOTION - I retired at the end of August 2019 from serving as full-time senior pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer, AK.  I was writing a weekly devotion previously entitled, "Thoughts from the Pastor."  When I retired many asked me to continue writing these devotions.  So I have continued writing.  However, with life's changes I now call this weekly devotion "Journeys Through Life as a Child of God."  Since I am no longer senior pastor at St. John, I felt it right to only send this message to those who asked to receive it.  (However, I am currently as Vacancy Pastor for Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Chugiak, AK.)

So, if you stopped receiving these devotions and wondered why, now you understand.  And, if you are now receiving these devotions and do not wish to receive them, please let me know, and I’ll gladly remove your name from my distribution list.  My e-mail address is jonrock53@mtaonline.net.

My prayer is that these devotions help each of you in your daily walk with our Lord, Jesus.

 

                                                                        *******

Jonathan Rockey

Child of God

Husband, Father, Son, Grandfather

Vacancy Pastor, Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Chugiak, AK

Pastor Emeritus, St. John Lutheran Church, Palmer, AK

 

“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1 a)

 

Knowing my Ability to Mis-communicate, Seeking to Speak Clearly about the Will of God

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

Do you ever struggle with communication?  Do you mis-understand, or mis-interpret what others are trying to say?  Or worse, do others sometimes mis-understand the message you are seeking to share? Maybe you feel like you are playing the game of “telephone”, where one person whispers a phrase to a person next to them in a circle.  That person shares with the person sitting next to them, until the message makes it all the way around the circle.  Very often the final phrase heard does not even resemble what the spoken phrase was originally.

 

I had one of those “telephone” moments recently.  I was in Florida to preach for the 65^th anniversary of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Jacksonville.  While there I had the opportunity to play golf a number of times with my friends.  On Monday, October 27, as some others from my group were teeing off on hole number 14, my phone vibrated in my pocket.  I try to leave my phone on silent while golfing so that I do not distract others.  I looked at my call, which was from Alaska, and moved away and tried to speak softly. An acquaintance from Alaska wanted to talk with me on a pastoral matter.

 

What do you do when someone needs to talk and you are busy? I could have talked quickly at that moment and possibly missed hearing the real issue.  I could have stopped golfing, and required my partners to return me to the clubhouse. Or, I could suggest that we talk in depth at another time.  That is what I chose to do.  I told the caller, “I’m teeing off on number 14 right now.  Could we talk at 4:00 p.m. Alaska time?”  I heard a hesitant ok, and we did talk later that evening.  One of my golf friends told me, “I hope that wasn’t an important issue with a parishioner, and you just blew him off.”  It was not officially a parishioner.  And while I did want to listen and give any necessary pastoral care, I thought I had taken into consideration both my golf partners and also the person calling.  That’s what I thought . . . at least.

 

So, when 8:00 p.m. Florida time, and 4:00 p.m. Alaska time rolled around, the phone did ring and we did talk.  However, what I had spoken into my telephone while golfing, was not what hit the ear of the person calling me.  He thought I said, not “I’m teeing off”, but rather “I’m teed off!”  He had wondered what was going on, but was still willing to wait and talk in about 5 hours.  After hearing his understanding of what I said, I apologized for the mis-communication.  I explained what I was trying to do.  We did ultimately have a fruitful conversation. 

 

This is not the only time I have had mis-communications.  Such mis-understandings have happened with family, happened at church, and happened with friends.  So, if someone does not understand, I try to apologize, and I try to do a better job of sharing more clearly in the future.  One way to communicate well is to repeat over and over again, in different ways, the same thought.  I once heard that, in order for people to hear what you are saying, a speaker needs to repeat their point 3 times.  Now I’m told, in the social media era, it takes at least 7 repetitions to get a point across. 

 

In Confirmation Class at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Chugiak, Alaska, on Sunday afternoon, November 2, we studied about the Lord’s Prayer, and the 3^rd Petition, or request, of that prayer, “Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:10)  So, what IS the will of God?  We used repetition.  We looked at 4 Bible verses.

 

We read Ezekiel 18:23 “Have I any pleasure in the death of the wicked, declares the Lord GOD, and not rather that he should turn from his way and live?” We also considered John 6:40 “For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day." Then we looked at God’s Word in 1 Timothy 2:4 “[God] . . .  desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”  Finally, the students discussed God’s will by looking at 1 Thessalonians 4:3 “For this is the will of God, your sanctification”  Do you hear a theme? God desires the eternal salvation of the people of this world.  God repeats again and again that He loves us and desires to save us.  However, even our Lord is often misunderstood.  That is why the memory verse for class that day was John 3:16-17.  “¹⁶ "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. ¹⁷ For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” There are MANY of verses in Scripture where God plainly communicates His love and His desire to give us eternal life through faith in His Son, Jesus, the Christ.

 

I have also been taught that, more important to communication than speaking, is listening.  It is important to listen to others and understand what they hear when we speak.  That is why I often repeat a point.  I am convinced that is why God teaches us again and again about His love.

 

So, the confirmation students were asked a question, which we should ask ourselves.  “What is the good and gracious will of God?”  Our Lord tells of His love in Jesus again and again.  God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” Did you hear His message?  His heart?

 

A Child of God, Knowing my Ability to Mis-communicate, Seeking to Speak Clearly about the Will of God,

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I am now serving Our Redeemer Lutheran in Chugiak, AK, as part-time Vacancy Pastor. 

 

·       The Our Redeemer Call Committee includes Elder and chairman, Jerry Simpson, also Heidi Enlow, Ruth Keller, Theo Lee, Jacob Lewis, Scott Roelfs, and Martha Wilkins.  They have met numerous times. 

The first step in the call process has been to complete a congregational self-study.  The Northwest District has shared the study and tools to help in this study.  The committee has asked for and received input from ORLC for this study.  Jacob Lewis has compiled these survey to turn in to District.  Nomination forms for names for a new pastor have also been distributed.  We have about 8 names.

The self-study, and nominations for pastor, were indeed sent to the Northwest District by October 1, 2025. 

The last meeting was Friday evening, October 24.  The committee discussed questions to ask candidates when the congregation receives names from the Northwest District.

We are now waiting for the Northwest District to return names for possible future pastors for Our Redeemer.

 

OTHER EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES AT OUR REDEEMER:

 

·       There are two opportunities a week for exercise and wellness. 

o   Matt Keith leads Chayon Ryu Martial Arts Class on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:00 a.m. in the Our Redeemer Fellowship Hall

 

o   Matt then teaches a Elder Momentum Class, attended mostly by seniors, at 10:00 a.m. in the fellowship hall.

 

·       A “Mom’s Group” meets on the first and third Mondays at 10:30 a.m. at Our Redeemer.

 

·       An Adult Fellowship Potluck is held the first Tuesday of each month at 11:30 a.m.  In December this takes place at Bobby’s Café..

 

• Youth Group metes after worship on one Sunday each month.  On November 30 Youth Group will be a cooking class.

 

·       There are other events planned as well.  Watch the Our Redeemer calendar and newsletter for information.

 

 

Regular Bible Studies and Sunday School

 

·       Adult Bible Study continues on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m.   The class FINISHED studying “Basic Christian Teachings.” We will now be enjoying Bible Study’s based on Garrison Keillor monologues, specifically for holiday issues.   Come and join us!

 

·       Sunday School is held each Sunday beginning at 9:00 a.m.!  This is a blessing for ALL children and adults.   

 

·       “Deeply Rooted Small Group” Is held at Our Redeemer on the first and third Sunday evenings at 5:45 p.m.

 

·       Confirmation classes began on Sunday, October 12, after worship services.  Subsequent classes will be held on November 16, 23, and December 7.  Watch for more information.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURES WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Wednesday, November 5, we read Hebrews 4.   

Feel free to contact Pastor Rockey at 907-841-4066 if you have any questions about these readings.  Or send an e-mail question to jonrock53@mtaonline.net  I have recently received questions and comments.  It is always good to consider our Lord’s love and guidance. I will TRY to answer, but some things only God knows!

 

P.P.P.S. Family Fun and Fishing!  - Kathy and I returned to Alaska from Florida. On the way home we visited our oldest son and his family in Olympia, WA.  Here are some pictures.

 

·       We spent time with family in Olympia.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/waofnH7S8JvQH5hE9

 

·       Here are some grand kid pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/JrRwvCLg6f46D5Cx9

 

·       Here are some pictures of Josh and Erin’s new house and their yard. https://photos.app.goo.gl/FjAnoEuDegkWNxfV9

 

·       I did golf on Wednesday, October 29, at the Capital City Golf Course.  One interesting feature was the robot ball retrievers they had for the driving range.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/zYtsYxHdgzrygYWL6

 

 

*******

 

ABOUT THIS DEVOTION - I retired at the end of August 2019 from serving as full-time senior pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer, AK.  I was writing a weekly devotion previously entitled, "Thoughts from the Pastor."  When I retired many asked me to continue writing these devotions.  So I have continued writing.  However, with life's changes I now call this weekly devotion "Journeys Through Life as a Child of God."  Since I am no longer senior pastor at St. John, I felt it right to only send this message to those who asked to receive it.  (However, I am currently as Vacancy Pastor for Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Chugiak, AK.)

So, if you stopped receiving these devotions and wondered why, now you understand.  And, if you are now receiving these devotions and do not wish to receive them, please let me know, and I’ll gladly remove your name from my distribution list.  My e-mail address is jonrock53@mtaonline.net.

My prayer is that these devotions help each of you in your daily walk with our Lord, Jesus.

 

                                                                        *******

Jonathan Rockey

Child of God

Husband, Father, Son, Grandfather

Vacancy Pastor, Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Chugiak, AK

Pastor Emeritus, St. John Lutheran Church, Palmer, AK

 

 

“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1 a)

 

Celebrating that, in the Midst of Our Struggles and Failures, God is Faithful!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

On Sunday, October 26, I had the privilege of preaching for the 65^th anniversary of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, FL the congregation which I served from 1983-1991 Actually, later that afternoon, Our Redeemer hosted the Reformation Celebration for the “First Coast Circuit” of the Florida-Georgia District, and my brother, President James Rockey, preached for that event.  Both services were joyful celebrations with special music, the return of many former members, and a good attendance.  I believe the day was a blessing in many ways.  First, we praised God for His love for all people in Jesus.  Second, we recognized what God has done in the midst of His people in this area.  Kathy and I enjoyed this opportunity and privilege to celebrate with our brothers and sisters in the faith.

 

I preached on the assigned Epistle lesson for the day from 2 Timothy 4.  Perhaps as you read some of these verses you might see a contrast between the joy of celebrating an anniversary, and the trials of Christian service and ministry.  For example, while Paul had served selflessly around the Mediterranean, bringing the good news of salvation by faith because of the life and death and resurrection of Jesus, and starting many congregations, he nevertheless writes from prison, near the end of his life.  For example, he tells Timothy in verse 6, “For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. ⁷ I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:6-7)  Celebrations can look at the good times.  Nevertheless, serving Jesus can be a battle, a struggle, a fight.

 

Secondly, in spite of his efforts to share Jesus with others, Paul was often disappointed by fellow believers, even at the end. Consider verse 16.  “At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me. May it not be charged against them” (2 Timothy 4:16) Disappointment is real in this sinful world, even when serving the Lord of all.

 

In truth, part of Paul’s disappointment was in himself.  He had originally persecuted God’s church, putting people in prison.  And Paul knew the battle with sin and evil. Listen to what he shares with Timothy. “The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost.” (1 Timothy 1:15) (See also Romans 7:19) If Christian ministry, if serving Jesus, has this many challenges and tribulations, we might wonder why anyone tries.  If serving our Savior has this many seeming failures, why would anyone want to follow Jesus?

 

There is, however, good reason for celebrating.  In the midst of our struggles, Jesus is faithful, and HE accomplishes His saving work in the midst of a sinful world and a challenged church.

 

Paul may have been awaiting death in prison, But He knew the victory of Jesus.  “ ⁸ Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.”  (2 Timothy 4, 8)

 

Paul may have been deserted at times, He may have struggled during his service, but the Lord never deserted him.  ^“But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion's mouth. ¹⁸ The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom.”  2 Timothy 4:17-18a)  God strengthened Paul through the struggles of ministry.  The Lord strengthens all His children for their walk of faith.  Life as a Christian is not easy.  But the Lord is an “ever-present help!” (Psalm 46:1)  God saved Paul, and He saves all believers, and brings them through the struggle of this life into “His heavenly kingdom.” 

 

When we celebrate milestones, such as the anniversary of a congregation, or even the 500^th anniversary of the Reformation which we did observe 8 years ago, we best thank the Lord that HE works His will in spite of, and in the midst of, our sin and our struggles.  That is why Paul writes at the end of 2 Timothy 4:18 “To HIM be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

 

On October 26, as we celebrated the 65^th anniversary of Our Redeemer we considered the history of this congregation.  It had a great beginning in 1960, but there have been struggles along the way.  Yet, 65 years later, God is still good, and He is faithful, and Jesus strengthens His people in this world and saves us for eternal life in heaven.  God’s grace and faithfulness and salvation through the years truly are worth celebrating!  Yes, we can say with Paul, “To HIM be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

 

When you have struggled and failed in your life, have you nevertheless seen the love and faithfulness of God?

 

A Child of God, Celebrating that, in the Midst of Our Struggles and Failures, God is Faithful!

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  Kathy and I were blessed at the 65^th anniversary celebration of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, FL, on Sunday, October 26.  Here are some pictures! 😊 https://photos.app.goo.gl/wT3VykQVu5aoYAwEA  (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

P.P.S.  I am now serving Our Redeemer Lutheran in Chugiak, AK, as part-time Vacancy Pastor. 

 

·       The Our Redeemer Call Committee includes Elder and chairman, Jerry Simpson, also Heidi Enlow, Ruth Keller, Theo Lee, Jacob Lewis, Scott Roelfs, and Martha Wilkins.  They have met numerous times. 

The first step in the call process has been to complete a congregational self-study.  The Northwest District has shared the study and tools to help in this study.  The committee has asked for and received input from ORLC for this study.  Jacob Lewis has compiled these survey to turn in to District.  Nomination forms for names for a new pastor have also been distributed.  We have about 8 names.

The self-study, and nominations for pastor, were indeed sent to the Northwest District by October 1, 2025. 

The last meeting was Friday evening, October 24.  The committee discussed questions to ask candidates when the congregation receives names from the Northwest District.

 

OTHER EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES AT OUR REDEEMER:

 

·       There are two opportunities a week for exercise and wellness. 

o   Matt Keith leads Chayon Ryu Martial Arts Beginner Class on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:00 a.m. in the Our Redeemer Fellowship Hall

 

o   Matt then teaches a Fall Prevention Class, attended mostly by seniors, at 10:00 a.m. in the fellowship hall.

 

·       A “Mom’s Group” meets on the first and third Mondays at 10:30 a.m. at Our Redeemer.

 

·       An Adult Fellowship Potluck is held the first Tuesday of each month at 11:30 a.m.  In November this takes place on the 4th in the library.

 

·       Ladies Bunco is held on the third Monday evening of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Our Redeemer.

 

·       Men’s Night was held on Friday, October 24, at 6:30 p.m. at the Birchwood Saloon!

 

·       Youth Group met after worship on Sunday, October 26.

 

·       There are other events planned as well.  Watch the Our Redeemer calendar and newsletter for information.

 

 

Regular Bible Studies and Sunday School

 

·       Adult Bible Study continues on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m.   The class is studying “Basic Christian Teachings.” We are now studying about the church.  On October 12 and 19 we studied about “Lutheran Distinctives.”  We will continue this study on November 2 and study, “What God Expects of Disciples/Members.  Come and join us!

 

·       Sunday School is held each Sunday beginning at 9:00 a.m.!  This is a blessing for ALL children and adults.   

 

·       “Deeply Rooted Small Group” Is held at Our Redeemer on the first and third Sunday evenings at 5:45 p.m.

 

·       Confirmation classes began on Sunday, October 12, after worship services.  Subsequent classes will be held on October 19 and November 2.  Watch for more information.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURES WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Tuesday, October 28 we read Titus 1.   

Feel free to contact Pastor Rockey at 907-841-4066 if you have any questions about these readings.  Or send an e-mail question to jonrock53@mtaonline.net  I have recently received questions and comments.  It is always good to consider our Lord’s love and guidance. I will TRY to answer, but some things only God knows!

 

P.P.P.S. Family Fun and Fishing!  - Kathy and I flew out of Anchorage in the early evening on Monday, October 20, so I could preach at the 65^th anniversary of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, FL, where I served as pastor from 1983 to 1991.   While in Gainesville, however, we relaxed.

 

·       We spent time with family and friends.

o   On Tuesday, October 21, Kathy and I visited my brother, David, in his new apartment and ate lunch together.  Here are a couple of pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/zEQ8XrbNt4rW54bv8 (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

o   On Thursday, October 23, after fishing with brother-in-law, Mark Reaves, Kathy and I went out to eat with Mark and my sister, Martha.  Here are pictures near our Florida place. https://photos.app.goo.gl/DtVoaaFGdLQvcqHS8 (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

o   On Sunday, October 26, Kathy and I were able to share the day with my brother, District President, James Rockey, and his wife Martha.  Here are a couple of pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/9YXFWtA1LzT5z4TF8 (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

o   On Monday night, October 27, most of my siblings, my cousin Nancy, and spouses gathered at a local Mexican restaurant to get together.  Here is a picture. https://photos.app.goo.gl/nVaWxakMxD1fNMu78 (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

·        I golfed with friends.

o   On Wednesday, October 22, I golfed with friends at Hawkstone Golf and Country Club in Gainesville.  Here are a couple of pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/3iWcLA5sLBNdEzaX6  (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

o   On Friday, October 24, I golfed with friends at Turkey Creek Golf Course.  On my second hole I saw this guy sunning himself.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/rRk5WUpYA4FD3pXv7 (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

o   On Monday, October 27, I golfed at Hawkstone again.  Here are just a few more pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/kLzR1jbeVhJrAHvL8 (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

o   The only problem is that I, surprisingly, golfed relatively well – for me.  My handicap went DOWN a stroke after these 3 games.   ☹

 

·       I got to do some fishing. 😊

o   On Thursday, October 23, I went fishing with my brother-in-law, Mark Reaves, at Georges Lake.  We had a number of bites and caught a few small ones.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Vbjge6Pv9PNYFMDk7 (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

o   On Saturday, October 25, I fished in Grandin Lake.  I had quite a few bites and caught 6 bass.  As on Wednesday, since we were only here a short time, I released all the fish for another day.  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/eJYoLNhbj94D2H88A (Click the pictures to see explanations.)

 

 

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ABOUT THIS DEVOTION - I retired at the end of August 2019 from serving as full-time senior pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer, AK.  I was writing a weekly devotion previously entitled, "Thoughts from the Pastor."  When I retired many asked me to continue writing these devotions.  So I have continued writing.  However, with life's changes I now call this weekly devotion "Journeys Through Life as a Child of God."  Since I am no longer senior pastor at St. John, I felt it right to only send this message to those who asked to receive it.  (However, I am currently as Vacancy Pastor for Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Chugiak, AK.)

So, if you stopped receiving these devotions and wondered why, now you understand.  And, if you are now receiving these devotions and do not wish to receive them, please let me know, and I’ll gladly remove your name from my distribution list.  My e-mail address is jonrock53@mtaonline.net.

My prayer is that these devotions help each of you in your daily walk with our Lord, Jesus.

 

                                                                        *******

Jonathan Rockey

Child of God

Husband, Father, Son, Grandfather

Vacancy Pastor, Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Chugiak, AK

Pastor Emeritus, St. John Lutheran Church, Palmer, AK

 

 

“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1 a)