Pondering Jesus’ Words, ‘I Must Stay at Your House Today!’

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

Life changes. The world in which we live changes.  When I was ordained as pastor in 1979, I began a personal commitment of seeking to visit all the members of the congregation I would serve, in their homes.  In those days the church was still an important and valued part of American culture, though the foundation was cracking.  If the pastor sought to visit, people went all out to welcome him.  In some ways it was as if royalty were visiting.  I also sought to visit those who joined the congregation later.  I believe it is important for the pastor to know those he is shepherding.  And, it is also good for people to know their shepherd.

 

However, as the years progress, and as our world has changed, the idea of a visit by the pastor seems to have become more of a burden than a privilege.  Where it was once common for 75-80% of church members to welcome a visit by the pastor, I would estimate that today only one third to as little as one fourth of church members welcome such a visit.  I hear things like, “My house is a mess.” “My schedule is full.” “Maybe when we get settled.”  Nevertheless, even if people sound interested in a visit, it is harder to accomplish today.

 

Now imagine another possible visit.  In my devotions this week one of the Biblical accounts I read was that of Zacchaeus, found in Luke 19:1-10.  Zacchaeus was the chief tax collector in Jericho, and therefore despised by the Jewish people as a thief and a traitor.  Nevertheless, Zacchaeus had heard of Jesus and wanted to see Him.  Because Zacchaeus was a short man, he climbed up in a tree.  It must have been somewhat comical to watch as Jesus stopped under the tree where this important government official had unceremoniously climbed, and to observe their conversation.  Jesus tells Zacchaeus, "Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today." (Luke 19:5)

 

How would we respond, how would you react, if the Lord of All indicated He was coming to your home, no question about it?  Would you ask for time to clean your house?  Are there pictures, or books, or videos which you might want to put away, or hide?  Jesus is the Lord and Ruler of the universe.  He is the Savior of all, Who loved us so much He died a torturous death for us.  A visit from Jesus would be BETTER THAN  a visit from any pastor. A visit from Jesus would be BETTER THAN  a visit from royalty.  Would you welcome Him?  Or might you have excuses, at least to put the visit off until you were more ready?

 

I hope we are not missing the fact that Jesus IS in our homes, as He is in the hearts and lives of those who believe in Him. God’s promise concerning the Messiah is found in His name, “²² All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: ²³ ‘Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel’ (which means, GOD WITH US).” (Matthew 1:22-23)  Jesus assures His disciples, “And behold, I AM WITH YOU always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:20).  John tells us of the ‘Incarnate Word,” “¹⁴ And the Word became flesh and DWELT AMONG US,”  (John 1:14).  Paul teaches, 20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but CHRIST LIVES IN ME. (Galatians 2:20) In the Lord’s Supper Jesus teaches, “²⁶ Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take, eat; this is my body." ²⁷ And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink of it, all of you, ²⁸ for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” (Matt. 26:26-28)

 

The truth is that Jesus has come to us in love, in humility, in His powerful, saving Grace.  Jesus is waiting for us to receive Him by faith, joyfully.  DO we welcome Him, and His love, His guidance, His forgiveness, His salvation?  Or, even though the Lord of the universe has come to us, do we find excuses?

 

We can think that Jesus only spoke to Zacchaeus on that day as He traveled through Jericho on the way to Jerusalem in order to be crucified, to rise, and to save the human race.  But, Jesus is speaking to us today, I must stay at your house today." Jesus comes to us.  Will you receive Him joyfully?

 

A Child of God, Pondering Jesus’ Words, ‘I Must Stay at Your House Today!’

Pastor Rockey

 

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

 

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.” On July 6 we studied about heaven and hell.  On July 13 we studied about the Word of God.  Come and join us!

 

·       Summer Sunday School - Children have an opportunity to study during the summer as well.  Leah Rawlins is leading the children in studying the book of Ruth.  At the end of this study they may put what they learned into expression through legos.  All Children are WELCOME! 😊  (However, there was no Sunday School on July 6 (4^th of July weekend), nor on August 31 (Labor Day Weekend!)

 

·       NATIONAL YOUTH GATHERING 2025 – NEW ORLEANS!  Our Redeemer is sending 6 people to the 2025 LCMS National Youth Gathering in New Orleans.  The Our Redeemer Group leaves on Friday, July 18.  The Rockeys, Jonathan, Kathy, and Mary will be working for the Gathering.  They leave Tuesday morning July 15.  Please keep these people in your prayers.  Pastor Tony Schultz will lead worship on July 20.  Here is a picture from our trip on the way to the NYG.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/uVaMNcHqWYGTycE56

 

·       In August we will have meetings to discuss upcoming confirmation classes, and perhaps some early communion classes.  Watch for more information.  If anyone desires to attend an adult membership class, that is what we are studying on Sunday mornings at 9.

 

·       The Our Redeemer Call Committee has been formed.  It includes Elder and chairman, Jerry Simpson, also Heidi Enlow, Ruth Keller, Theo Lee, Jacob Lewis, Scott Roelfs, and Martha Wilkins.  They met on June 4, and again on July 1.  The first step in the call process will be to begin a congregational self-study.  The Northwest District has the study and tools to help in this study.  The committee will meet again on July 22, and targets August 15 for inputs from leaders to the congregational self-study.

It is good for a congregation to be patient in the call process.  Please PRAY that as our Lord leads this committee and Our Redeemer in this process, we will follow His guidance.

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  We are now in the New Testament!  On Wednesday, July 16, we read Luke 21 and 22, On Thursday we finish the Gospel of Luke, and begin the Gospel of John on Friday!

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.S. Family and Friends:

 

·       Our yard is doing well.  I mowed the grass on Monday morning, July 14, before we left.  Here are a few pictures of some flowers.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/chK3L41gRqDNqP8f8

 

·       Our garden continues to do well.  We have had many meals with salad fixings.  Strawberries are starting to come in too.  Here are some pictures from July 14.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/fNWfpRtFSNKRYY9z6

 

Fishing  - I went dip netting on the Kasilof River on July 10 and 11.  I got 9 red salmon.  I could have done better, but am thankful for what I did get.  Here are some pictures from that trip.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/T525fHtbuffnj7J96

 

*******

 

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)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How Will They Remember Us? - Desiring to Leave the Eternal Treasures of Jesus with My Children and Grandchildren!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

Perhaps grandchildren always think that, to a certain extent, their grandparents are somewhat ‘weird,’ or ‘crazy.’  Afterall, grandparents grew up in a world at least 2 generations separated from the generation of their grandchildren.  However, it seems that my grandson, Jake, really thought I had gone off the deep end recently. As we gathered on June 29 for a family meal, with all four of our children present, I informed them that Kathy and I recently purchased our funerals.  Jake couldn’t stop laughing, and couldn’t believe we were discussing this topic.

 

For Kathy and for me, both of our parents had made these preparations before their deaths.  Then we didn’t have to make difficult choices during a time of loss and stress.  We didn’t have to answer tough questions.  “Did Mom or Dad want to be cremated or buried?  If they wanted to be cremated, what do we do with the ashes?  If they wanted to be buried, what about the casket?  Is this casket too cheap, and perhaps dishonors my parent?  Is this one too expensive, and they would think we are wasting money?  How about a service?  What about graves?”  Kathy and I made these plans and purchases to prevent our children from having to make these decisions when we pass.  You should also know that we are both currently healthy and we are not planning on dying soon. 😊 (Only God knows!)

 

However, there is another story in the background concerning our grandchildren.  Josh and Erin, and their four children, Jake, Emma, Henry, and Annie, two-thirds of our six grandkids, are moving to Olympia Washington, soon.  They drive out of Alaska on July 19, and Josh will serve as principal at Ranier Elementary on McChord AFB.  We are saddened by their leaving. However, I reminded Kathy that my parents were not happy when we moved to Alaska in 1991.  My dad’s family was disappointed when he and my mom and their 5 kids moved from Massachusetts to Florida in 1965.  This is all part of life in today’s world.

 

Therefore, I have been thinking, “How will my grandchildren remember me?”  Will Jake remember his grandfather as a crazy old man who makes his funeral arrangements in advance?  On June 29^th, we concluded our meal with a devotion from a book we have often used.  Will Jake remember us as people who are serious about their faith in Jesus?  I did take Jake and his youngest sister, Annie, fishing on Saturday, July 5.  It was a good trip.  I have LOTS of pictures of Jake on fishing trips with me.  Sometimes it was just Jake and me!  Will Jake remember me as someone who spent time with his grandchildren and loved(s) them?

 

How about my other 5 grandchildren?  Listed by age, they are Jackson, Emma, Kendall, Henry, and Annie.  Even if they are not ALL moving away, what have I done, what am I leaving with them with will be a lasting gift?  What have I done which will provide a lasting blessing?  I ask this question not just concerning my grandchildren, but also concerning my children.

 

My devotional readings on July 9 were from Luke 11 and 12.  In Luke 12, Jesus teaches, “²⁹ And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. ³⁰ For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. ³¹ Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you. ³² "Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. ³³ Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. ³⁴ For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”  (Luke 12:29-35 ESV)

 

As I mentioned, I went through a similar experience as a child.  My parents moved their family from Easthampton, MA, where 5 generations of Rockey’s had lived.  We relocated to Gainesville, FL, in 1965.  Yet, I still have vivid memories of my grandfather, whom I called “Grampy,” and of other relatives.  I remember faith lessons Grampy taught me before we moved, and some he taught me after we were living in separate towns and states. For example, he taught me about forgiveness, when I would get in trouble in school – A LOT!  Grampy taught me not to be prejudiced.  He also impressed on me the importance of church, by his example.  And, when I was confirmed in Florida my grandfather came up to me after the ceremony and said, “I’m proud of you.  I pray you do a better job of keeping your vows than I did in keeping mine.”  WOW!  My grandfather had a GREAT influence on my faith in Jesus. He left eternal blessings with me.

 

I do believe that treasure in heaven is so much more valuable than the things on this earth.  I also believe that it is in the grace of God through Jesus that we receive love and joy and peace . . . eternally.  I believe that in Jesus’ life and death and resurrection we receive life forever.  What can BE more important?  I pray daily that my children and my grandchildren know Jesus, and His eternal gifts of love, and forgiveness, and salvation.  I pray that I have shared with them these gifts of Jesus, and can continue to do so.

 

So, in whose life are you making a difference?  Are you pointing those you love to eternal treasures found in Jesus?

 

A Child of God, Desiring to Leave the Eternal Treasures of Jesus with My Children and Grandchildren!

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  You might enjoy this song from Steve Green, “May Those Who Come Behind Us Find Us Faithful!”  Dave Anderson taught me this song!  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKT5BCmvmq0&list=RDMKT5BCmvmq0&start_radio=1

 

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

 

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.” On July 6 we studied about heaven and hell.  On July 13 we will study about the Word of God.  Come and join us!

 

·       Summer Sunday School - Children have an opportunity to study during the summer as well.  Leah Rawlins is leading the children in studying the book of Ruth.  At the end of this study they may put what they learned into expression through legos.  All Children are WELCOME! 😊  (However, there was no Sunday School on July 6 (4^th of July weekend), nor on August 31 (Labor Day Weekend!)

 

·       The Our Redeemer 4^th of July parade cookout took place last Friday, July 4.  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/9ToG3M2kuThcrncf8

 

·       NATIONAL YOUTH GATHERING 2025 – NEW ORLEANS!  Our Redeemer is sending 6 people to the 2025 LCMS National Youth Gathering in New Orleans.  The Our Redeemer Group leaves on Friday, July 18.  The Rockeys, Jonathan, Kathy, and Mary will be working for the Gathering.  They leave Tuesday morning July 15.  Please keep these people in your prayers.

 

·       In August we will have meetings to discuss upcoming confirmation classes, and perhaps some early communion classes.  Watch for more information.  If anyone desires to attend an adult membership class, that is what we are studying on Sunday mornings at 9.

 

·       The Our Redeemer Call Committee has been formed.  It includes Elder and chairman, Jerry Simpson, also Heidi Enlow, Ruth Keller, Theo Lee, Jacob Lewis, Scott Roelfs, and Martha Wilkins.  They met on June 4, and again on July 1.  The first step in the call process will be to begin a congregational self-study.  The Northwest District has the study and tools to help in this study.  The committee will meet again on July 22, and targets August 15 for inputs from leaders to the congregational self-study.

It is good for a congregation to be patient in the call process.  Please PRAY that as our Lord leads this committee and Our Redeemer in this process, we will follow His guidance.

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  We are now in the New Testament!  On Wednesday, July 9, we read Luke 11 and 12, part of Luke’s version of Matthew’s “Sermon on the Mount.”

 

·       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.S. Family and Friends:

·       Here are some pictures of my grandfather, Charles Frederick Rockey (Raake) III. https://photos.app.goo.gl/eTa6ezR9euuwg7KS7

 

·       Our garden is doing well.  We have had many meals with salad fixings.  Strawberries are starting to come in too.  Here are some pictures from July 8. https://photos.app.goo.gl/xmPhB8R6VVBxhZvWA

 

·       Here are some pictures of Jake fishing with me through the years.  😊  https://photos.app.goo.gl/mGm5EXuCpDfNZv5q6

 

·       Fishing  -

o   Last Saturday I took grandchildren Jacob and Annabelle fishing at Long Lake.They caught lots of trout.  Here are some pictures.  😊 https://photos.app.goo.gl/XQPRgQ184Jt7wwwL9

 

o   On Sunday, July 6, I took my boat and new motor to the Little Susitna River.  This is perhaps my favorite place to fish in Alaska.  Sadly, I did not see any salmon.  I did however find the location and materials for the new weir, 5 miles upstream from the previous location.  I am thankful, because this opens up some good fishing holes I enjoy.  😊  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/abtiQYoU5mySm5hX8

 

*******

 

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)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Are you seeking the welfare and praying for the city and the nation where you live?

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

On Friday, July 4, the United States will celebrate the 249th anniversary of the official signing of the Declaration of Independence.  Many nations have longer histories than this country.  But, how do you think the nation where we live is doing?  Is America healthy?  Is the direction of this nation going in a good, or bad, direction?

 

Many older people who remember this country in the 40’s, or 50’s, or even the 60’s, may look back on what they consider ‘the good old days,’ and point to problems which America faces today.  Americans may be better off financially than even before, even if they deny the fact.  However, families are not as stable, and often broken.  Drugs and substance abuse continue to be a growing problem hurting families and taking lives.  Most people distrust institutions, including the government and the church.  Instead of living as “one nation under God,” we are terribly divided.  What are Christians to do when the direction of their country seems contrary to the will of God for His people?

 

First, it is important to remember that Jesus came to save people, not governments. Jesus told those eating in the house of Zacchaeus, “ . . . the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." (Luke 19:10)  Jesus came to save people, to save sinners, not to save nations!

 

Second, scripture does teach that, at times, the Lord has His hand in the affairs of nations.  For example, in Mary’s hymn of praise which we call The Magnificat, these are her spirit-inspired words: “⁵⁰ And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. ⁵¹ He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts; ⁵² he has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate; ⁵³ he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty.” (Luke 1:50-53) God does accomplish His purposes among the nations in order that people may come to Jesus.

 

So, what should a Christian do when a nation seems to turn away from the Lord?  I know people who feel betrayed by the changes in this nation.  Yet we should not be surprised when leaders become proud because of their power, nor when people turn away from the Lord toward their own thoughts and desires.  That is the history of our sinful world.

 

Nevertheless, the Lord does call His children to work for the good of their communities and their nation.  The Lord encouraged such behavior from the people of Israel when they were in exile in Babylon.  Remember, Babylon was a nation whose ‘gods’ were not the true God.  In spite of this fact, please listen to His instructions.  ⁴ "Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, to all the exiles whom I have sent into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: ⁵ Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat their produce. ⁶ Take wives and have sons and daughters; take wives for your sons, and give your daughters in marriage, that they may bear sons and daughters; multiply there, and do not decrease. ⁷ But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.”  (Jeremiah 29:4-7)  Are you seeking the welfare of the community and nation where you live?  Do you pray for your country, your state, your city, and its leaders?

 

When Jesus conducted His ministry, Herod Antipas was king of Judea.  Herod caused some issues for Jesus’ work.  The king arrested John the Baptist and had him put to death.  When Jesus heard of John’s execution, we are told Jesus “withdrew to a desolate place.” (Matthew 14:13) In Luke 13:31 the Pharisees, of all people, warned Jesus about Herod.  Yet, Jesus still cared about the nation and it’s people. Listen to His lament, “³⁷ "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!” (Matthew 23:37) Jesus does not just mention the people, He cares about the city.  He wanted to give His love.  But Jerusalem resisted the love and guidance of the Savior, at least at that time.  So, they crucified Jesus.  He died for their sins, and for those of all the world. 

 

In his inaugural address in 1961, President John F. Kennedy is famous for encouraging Americans, “Ask not what your country can do for you.  Ask what you can do for your country.”  I’m not sure that is a common thought in America today.  Nevertheless, the Lord encouraged the Jews in the foreign nation of Babylon, and He encourages His church today, even if people still do not want to listen to Him, ⁷ . . . seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you . . . , and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.” 

 

Are you seeking the welfare and praying for the city and the nation where you live?

 

A Child of God, Praying for and Seeking the Welfare of the Nation and Community Where I Live!

Pastor Rockey

 

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

• 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.” On June 29 we studied about the person and the work of Jesus, and how He saves us. Come and join us in the library.  On July 6 we begin studying about who heaven and hell, and about the Word of God.
• Summer Sunday School - Children have an opportunity to study during the summer as well.  Leah Rawlins is leading the children in studying the book of Ruth.  At the end of this study they may put what they learned into expression through legos.  All Children are WELCOME! 😊  (However, there will be no Sunday School on July 6 (4^th of July weekend), nor on August 31 (Labor Day Weekend!

• The Our Redeemer 4^th of July parade cookout happens this Friday, July 4.  You can arrive at noon and help set up and cook.  The parade begins at 2:00 p.m.  The road re-opens again at 4:00 p.m.   Come and help serve our community!

·       The Our Redeemer Call Committee has been formed.  It includes Elder and chairman, Jerry Simpson, also Heidi Enlow, Ruth Keller, Theo Lee, Jacob Lewis, Scott Roelfs, and Martha Wilkins.  They met on June 4, and again on July 1.  The first step in the call process will be to begin a congregational self-study.  The Northwest District has the study and tools to help in this study.  The committee will meet again on July 22, and has targets around August 15 for inputs to the congregational self-study.

It is good for a congregation to be patient in the call process.  Please PRAY that as our Lord leads this committee and Our Redeemer in this process, we will follow His guidance.

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  We are now in the New Testament!  On Wednesday, July 2, we read Luke 2 and 3, the account of Jesus’ birth and baptism.

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.S. Family and Friends:

·       On Sunday night, June 29, all 4 of our children, and most of the family gathered for the last time while Josh and Erin live in Alaska.  They will drive out to Olympia, WA, on July 19.  Please pray for their upcoming adventures.  Here are pictures of our get together. https://photos.app.goo.gl/ErPFSbxv2SkvVFGW9

 

·       My garden and yard are finally looking good.  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/8xMAywwkuy5fHpwq9

 

·       Fishing  - Last Saturday I took an AMC mission team from Zimmerman, MN, fishing at Long Lake.  They caught lots of trout.  Here are some pictures.  😊  https://photos.app.goo.gl/paCV3BT2KdPTiamJ6

 

*******

 

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)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fighting A Non-Stop Battle - In my Gardens and In my Life!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

I believe I have written about this topic in previous years.  But, sometimes the on-going frustration from one of life’s struggles reaches a boiling point and a person, in this case myself, can at times . . . EXPLODE! I am in an on-going war with weeds, specifically chick weed!

 

I have been working on the gardens at our home in Alaska.  Yes, we were gone and out of state for most of 20 months as I served in Florida.  Our front flower garden took ‘major reconstructive surgery.’  But, thanks to recent high school graduate, St. John member Luke Stanley, the overgrown weeds and brush have been cleared out.  We have a newly planted flower garden. Thanks, Luke!

 

However, my vegetable garden is a different story, a never-ending battle.  I weeded my vegetables on Saturday, June 14, and my garden looked good. New plants were popping out of the ground and I had it pretty clear of weeds.  However, I was out of town from Monday, June 16 through Saturday night, June 21.  I went halibut fishing and attended a church convention.  Then on Monday, June 23, when I looked at my garden after returning, the weeds were trying to take over . . . again!  All this in just one week!  These weeds can choke out the growth of my edible plants.  My least favorite of these pests is chick weed.

 

During the time that my vegetables were growing one of my daily devotional readings from the Today’s Light Bible was from Mark 4, a chapter of agricultural parables from Jesus.   This reading reminded me of the parable Jesus told in a similar setting in Matthew 13, the Parable of the Weeds.  “²⁴ He put another parable before them, saying, "The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field, ²⁵ but while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away. ²⁶ So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also.” (Matthew 13:24-26)  As a gardener, I understand this dilemma.  It seems like I only took a short rest and the weeds appeared!

 

Later in Matthew 13 Jesus explains the parable.  ³⁷ . . . "The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man.  ³⁸ The field is the world, and the good seed is the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, ³⁹ and the enemy who sowed them is the devil. . . “  (Matthew 13:37-39 ESV) I feel like I am in a constant battle with my enemy, the weeds.

 

However, we are all in a constant battle with our enemy, the devil.  He is always planting seeds of temptation, seeds of doubt, seeds of selfishness, and seeds rebellion. Our enemy seeks to choke out our faith in Jesus.  He seeks to hide our Lord and His love from us behind the tangles of life’s concerns and temptation.

 

Thankfully, by telling this parable, Scripture reveals to us that Jesus understands our plight.  Jesus is keeping watch over the garden of His people. He sees the attacks of our enemy.  Jesus died to pay for the times we have fallen prey to the wiles of Satan.  Jesus rose to win eternal life for all who believe in Him.  Jesus will bring His people home, to heaven, in the final harvest.  Jesus has won the war. Yet, while we are in this life, we still face the battles. 

 

Coincidentally, our Epistle lesson for this coming Sunday, June 29, will instruct us about’ the works of the flesh’ (Galatians 5:19-21), and the fruit of the Spirit. You know the verse.  “²² But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³ gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23) Thankfully Jesus has sent His Spirit to work God’s fruit in us, even as our enemy seeks to sow seeds of disaster. 

 

How is your garden growing – the garden in your yard, AND the garden in your life? Are the love of God, the victory of Jesus, and the gift of the Spirit growing fruit in your life as you live in this world full of weeds and thorns and thistles? 

 

A Child of God, Fighting A Non-Stop Battle - In my Gardens and In my Life!

Pastor Rockey

 

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

• 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.” On June 15 we began the study about the fall into sin. Come and join us in the library.  On June 22 we begin studying about who Jesus is, and His saving life.
• Summer Sunday School - Children have an opportunity to study during the summer as well.  Leah Rawlins is leading the children in studying the book of Ruth.  At the end of this study they may put what they learned into expression through legos.  All Children are WELCOME! 😊  (There will be no Sunday School on July 6 (4^th of July weekend), nor on August 31 (Labor Day Weekend!

• The Our Redeemer 5K is held THIS SATURDAY, June 28, at 10:00 p.m.  This event will raise money for the local Chugiak Fire Department.  Talk to Lauren Johnston to see how you can participate, or how you can help.

The Our Redeemer Call Committee has been formed.  It includes Elder and chairman, Jerry Simpson, also Heidi Enlow, Ruth Keller, Theo Lee, Jacob Lewis, Scott Roelfs, and Martha Wilkins.  They met on June 4, and will meet again on July 1.  The first step in the call process will be to begin a congregational self-study.  The Northwest District has the study and tools to help in this study.  It is good for a congregation to be patient in the call process.  Please PRAY that as our Lord leads this committee and Our Redeemer in this process, we will follow His guidance.

• The 4^th of July Parade will pass Our Redeemer on Friday, July 4.  Our Redeemer again will be serving refreshments and encouraging the marchers.  Again, contact Lauren Johnston for more information.
• Northwest District Convention – The Triennial District Convention for LCMS Churches of the Northwest District was held June 19-21 in Spokane, WA.  Geri Wacker and Pastor Rockey attended for Our Redeemer.  Jerry Simpson attended for AMC.  Thank you for your prayers.

 

MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  We are now in the New Testament!  On Wednesday, June 25, we read Mark 11, and the account of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday.

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.S. Family and Friends:

 

·       My vegetable garden did look really good on June 14 after some extensive weeding.  HOWEVER, when we returned home from Spokane the weeds had returned with a vengeance! And my frustrations rose!  I am again at war with the enemy! Here are some pictures of my vegetable garden. https://photos.app.goo.gl/9LDZQQD7jzAzcW4D7

 

·       With help from recent high-school graduate and St. John member, Luke Stanley, we have re-claimed our front flower garden. It is no longer a 'briar patch,' but now a well-maintained garden. Look at these pictures of BEFORE and AFTER! THANKS, Luke!  https://photos.app.goo.gl/hf8h5VSrmubo5Rit8

 

Fishing  - Last week was a little more productive on the fishing front again.  More fishing is coming this Saturday as well.

·       I needed to break in my new boat motor. AND, David Bower, whom we've known from childhood, came over with his children on June 23 and suggested we go fishing. The next day we went north on the Glenn Highway and David's 9 year old daughter and almost 2 year old son caught LOTS of fish. It was a good day.  Here are some pictures!  https://photos.app.goo.gl/ZVvvxgXDFpwWb9V26

 

*******

 

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)