Wednesday, July 2, 2025

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 (4th of July weekend), nor on August 31 (Labor Day Weekend!
  • The Our Redeemer 4th 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)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Wednesday, June 25, 2025

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 (4th 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 4th 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)

 

 

 

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Can Christians have Fun?? Thankful For Fun with Faith, While Fishing with Family and Friends!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

Can Christians have fun?  I know that many people who do not know God believe that Christinas are not allowed to have fun - because they have to obey the Lord.  Many think that God forbids so much, that Christians can never have fun.  However, . . . I will suggest to you that CHRISTIANS HAVE THE BEST KIND OF FUN!

 

Please consider Paul’s God-inspired words from 1 Thessalonians 5.  At the end of this letter the Holy Spirit leads the apostle to give instructions for the life of Christian faith.  Some of those instructions read this way, “16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”  (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) When people are “in Christ” they know that God loves them.  When people are “in Christ” they know His forgives, because of the cross of Jesus.  When people are “in Christ” they know their sure future, because Jesus rose and offers eternal life to all who believe in Him as their Savior.  With this knowledge and assurance God’s children can live rejoicing, praying, and giving thanks, as Paul calls Christians to do!

 

The last two days I confess that I had fun.  The last two days I spent time with family and friends . . . FISHING!  My friend, Pastor Paul Birner, called me in February about the time that Kathy and I visited Alaska friends, Fred and Kelly Vasilie, in Bradenton, FL.  Some call me a fishing fanatic. But they have not met Fred. I’m not sure that Fred enjoys anything more than taking his family and friends fishing. And, Fred has a NICE halibut boat.  So, Paul and Fred and I got out our calendars in February and we chose June 17 and 18 to fish for halibut. I also knew that my daughter, Mary wanted to go.  She’ll almost always fish with her dad, even if he picks on her . . . a little.  And Mary has a special place in her heart for Fred.  Later we invited others, and grand-daughter, Emma, also came with us fishing.

 

Consider our trip.  God calls on us to love one another. Fathers are to love their children.  Children are to love their parents. We are to love our neighbors and friends. What better way to love one another than to spend time together, enjoying each other’s company, outdoors, in the beauty of God’s creation?!

 

God also calls us to love and worship Him in response to His grace and love for us.  When floating on a calm ocean, with snow capped mountains in the background, watching otters, and puffins, and catching fish, it is only natural to thank our Lord for His gifts and His bounty in nature.

 

In addition, when Christians gather together, as family and friends, in the beauty of the world around us, there is a calm that makes it easy to share with others. Christians can and do share hopes and dreams, hurts and frustrations.  But, in such a beautiful setting, with other believers around, the care and encouragement comes quickly and easily.

 

According to Jesus, the two great commandments are “29  . . . "The most important is, 'Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' 31 The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these." (Mark 12:29-31) When a person experiences the beauty of God’s creation with other Christian friends and family, loving God and loving others flows freely.

 

So, during this time of ‘family, friends, and fishing’ I saw joy.  During this time of family, friends, and fishing I joined in prayers which were said, on the water, at meal-time, in the morning, at bed-time.  During this time of family, friends, and fishing we gave thanks for the goodness of God in the beauty around us.  As people saved by Jesus this time of rejoicing, of prayer, of thanks, was special for family and friends as we lived our faith and had fun . . . fishing!

 

When was the last time you had fun as a child of God, as you rejoiced, as you prayed, and as you gave thanks with others for God’s blessings in your life?

 

A Child of God, Thankful for Fun with Faith, While Fishing with Family and Friends,

Pastor Rockey

 

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

  • VBS was held at Our Redeemer June 9-13.  Here are pictures of the whole week. https://photos.app.goo.gl/uLX11Sbda1fDYg5s8
  • 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! 😊 
  • 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.

 

  • Northwest District Convention – The Triennial District Convention for LCMS Churches of the Northwest District will be held June 19-21 in Spokane, WA.  Geri Wacker and Pastor Rockey will be attending for Our Redeemer.  Please keep this convention in 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 Tuesday, June 17, we finished the gospel of Matthew.. 

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 from the flower beds out front.  They were neglected for about 20 months.  But, with the help of Luke Stanley they are coming around.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Nd1zxxKEt7UcJMwN9

 

Fishing  - Last week was a little more productive on the fishing front.

 

 

  • As mentioned above, I went halibut fishing on June 17 and 18 with friends Fred Vasilie and Pastor Paul Birner.  In addition, caughter, Mary, and grand-daughter, Emma, came along.   

 

 

*******

 

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)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Thanking my Lord for Fatherly Love, from my Dad AND from HIM!

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

One of the worst sermons I remember listening to was in Chicago on Father’s Day in 1996.  A group from St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer were in Chicago for a worship conference, as our congregation considered some more contemporary ways to possibly worship.  Because of the reason for our trip, our group worshiped on Sunday in one of the largest congregations in the country at that time.  The church we visited was famous for “seeker worship,” and our group wanted to consider how they were worshiping.  I’m not sure how many people attended worship that day, but they had 2 auditoriums which held 14,000 people, and they expected a full crowd.

 

Before I tell you about that sermon let me share with you what I look for in a sermon.  2 Corinthians 4:5 helps me understand how I believe God wants me to preach.  This verse teaches, “For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake.” I was taught that a Lutheran sermon, hopefully any Christian sermon, should be about Jesus.  It should proclaim the forgiveness of His cross and the victory of His empty tomb.  With that in mind, I have 3 other personal criteria for a good sermon which I pray about each time before I preach.  I pray, “Lord, let this sermon be YOUR WORD and not my word.  (It should relate the truth of God found in a specific Bible verse.) Let this sermon HELP STRENGTHEN THE FAITH of Your people.  LORD, let this sermon BRING YOU GLORY as your people live it out in their lives of faith.”  That is my prayer. Basically, I believe a good sermon should speak GOD’S word and tell about Jesus in a way which helps God’s people practically in their walk of faith.

 

So in 1996, the sermon which I heard on Father’s Day, from a world famous pastor, talked about David.  The pastor said, and I paraphrase, “David was a bad father.   We don’t want to be fathers like David was. In today’s world we have counselors. Fathers should go to counselors so that they are not like David.”  There was no mention of Jesus, or His cross, or His empty tomb.  There was no mention that God is our Heavenly Father.  The basic message was, ”Go to counselors.”  Every pastor can share with you about times they wish they had done a better job of preaching. I wonder if this world-famous pastor felt that way after his Father’s Day message that year.

 

I share this somewhat long story because this Sunday, June 15, is Father’s Day.  We will celebrate and give thanks for our Fathers . . . perhaps. I recently heard that after Christmas Eve and Easter Sunday, Mother’s Day is the most well attended worship service each year. But, Father’s Day is not necessarily next in line.  Perhaps, in our politically correct world, fathers are not held in the same esteem as in past generations.

 

Perhaps fathers are like pastors - they know their mistakes.  Fathers are often considered leaders in their homes. The failures of leaders often seem more obvious.  There were times when I was a teenager that I did not get along well with my own dad. I would have been glad to share with you then a list of what I thought his faults were. But that was a rebellious teenager thinking and feeling.  The real truth is that my father was a GREAT Christian dad!  My life is greatly blessed because he took the calling of father seriously, and because he did his best to raise his children.  In the end, he was proud of us, and we are proud and thankful for him.

 

Please consider what Scripture says about the role of fathers. In Matthew Jesus teaches, “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!” (Matt. 7:11) A good father provides for his family. 

 

In Ephesians 6 we read, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4)  A good Father disciplines his children and teaches them about the Lord. 

 

Finally, please consider this truth from the Psalms.  As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him.” (Psalm 103:13)  A good father loves His children and shows compassion.

 

As a father myself I know many of my own failings. The list I have of my own regrets is longer than my teenage list was for my dad.  But, there is another key found in these verses.  I have a heavenly Father who has loved me perfectly.  In Jesus, my father forgives my failures and helps me seek to provide for my children, to discipline them and teach them.  My Heavenly Father guides me and helps me to love my children.  That is important to remember on Father’s Day.

 

David may have struggled as he sought to father his MANY children.  But that is NOT the bottom line.  In many ways Scripture tells us how David sought to provide for, to discipline and teach, and to love his children.  Scripture also teaches that Fathers are a gift of God to care for their children with God-like love.

 

This Father’s Day say thanks to your dad. Thank God FOR him.  This Father’s Day, thank your Heavenly Father that He provides, that He disciples, teaches and guides. This Father’s Day, thank your Heavenly Father that He loves with saving compassion.  This Father’s Day, thank God for His greatest love, our Savior Jesus.

 

A Child of God, Thanking my Lord for Fatherly Love, from my Dad AND from HIM!

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I have shared some Bible verses about fathers at the end of this devotion.

 

 

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

 

·       VBS is being held at Our Redeemer this week, from Monday, June 9 through Friday, June 14 from 9:30 a.m. till noon each day.  Bring your kids, your grandkids, and your neighbor kids!  😊 Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/BZKiomYN81ucMMoq7

 

·       Bible Studies and Sunday School

 

o   Adult Bible Study continues on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m.   The class is studying “Basic Christian Teachings.” On June 1 we studied about Creation.  On June 8 we finished studying about creation.  On June 15 we will begin the study about the fall into sin. Come and join us in the library.

 

o   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! 😊 

 

·       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 at the end of June.  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. 

o   It is good to take time to study how God is working in our midst to make us who He has formed us to be as we seek a new pastor.

o   It is good to have time to grieve and work through the leaving of our beloved pastor.

o   It is good to give our Lord the chance the bring the right man to Our Redeemer to serve as shepherd.  (Ask me about this sometime.)

Please PRAY that as our Lord leads this committee and Our Redeemer in this process, we will follow His guidance.

 

·       Northwest District Convention – The Triennial District Convention for LCMS Churches of the Northwest District will be held June 19-21 in Spokane, WA.  Geri Wacker and Pastor Rockey will be attending for Our Redeemer.  Please keep this convention in 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 Tuesday, June 10, we read Matthew 16-17. 

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:

 

·       I have been working on my garden and all seeds are coming up.  It is starting to look good.  Here are some pictures.

o   This is from June 9.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/dG6FHPHkeW1tmGcH6

o   These pictures are after weeding June 10.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/vzUZKgUpsDuR1Cq78

 

·       Here are some pictures from the flowers on our back deck. https://photos.app.goo.gl/FWCjNw6Ew52s378e9

 

·       God put on a show on Tuesday night, June 10.  Here are some pictures of alpenglow at 11:25 p.m. https://photos.app.goo.gl/MWcPPpDrLWniyepF9

 

·       We had more new snow on the mountains this past week on June 5, but I do think the weather is turning nicer!  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/BdyucJtkEuWaqK7b7

 

·       Because we were gone for about 2 years, I started a big project . . . WITH HELP.  I hired Luke Stanley to help me re-work our front flower garden.  THANK YOU, LUKE!

 

·       There are changes coming to our Alaska family.  Son, Josh, and his wife, Erin, and their children Jake, Emma, Henry, and Annie are moving to the Olympia, WA, area where Josh will be principal in a school.  Here Josh is borrowing our trailer for the moving process.   https://photos.app.goo.gl/3AdjzxEMzufF1SPg8

 

Fishing   I did go fishing on Friday, June 6, with friend Pastor Craig Schultz.  We fished in a local lake.  We each caught over 20 trout.  It was a good day!  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/fNADwxL87m2k69Xp7

 

P.P.P.S.  SOME Bible Verses about Fathers

 

Psalm 68:5 5 A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.

 

Psalm 103:13 As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him.

 

Matthew 6:9-13 9 "This, then, is how you should pray: "'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,  10 your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.'

 

Matthew 6:31-33 31 Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

 

Matthew 10:29-31 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. 30 But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.

 

John 1:14 14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

 

Romans 14:5-6 5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, 6 so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

 

2 Corinthians 1: 3-4 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.

 

Ephesians 1: 3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.

 

Ephesians 6:4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

 

1 Timothy 1: 2 To Timothy my true son in the faith: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

 

James 1:17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

 

1 Peter 1: 2-3 2 who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by his blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance. 3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

 

 

 

 

*******

 

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)