Wondering Why Life Can Be Frustrating, Seeking to Serve My Savior

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

Do the daily surprises and challenges of life ever frustrate you?  As you deal with necessary chores, many of which you did not choose, do you ever wonder what purpose you are serving, or if you are accomplishing anything worthwhile?  Kathy and I have returned home to Alaska after about 20 months in Florida.  When one returns home after such a long absence, there are details to face, many of which were not necessarily expected. 

 

We arrived at our home in Palmer on Monday night, May 5.  On Tuesday morning Kathy’s car would not start.  The battery was drained . . . again.  Thankfully, my truck did start, even if my garage door openers needed new batteries.  Technology is a challenge!  Also, our printer would not talk to our computers, nor did it work.  I downloaded a new driver from the internet for the printer, and found out we were out of ink.  However, the printer is now up and working and we have both printed.  😊 Do you hear my frustration?

 

Our internet signal seemed slower than we remembered.  Multiple television and streaming applications gave us trouble.  First, we found out that our apple device needed to be updated, before Amazon would work.  I accomplished both of those tasks, but not quickly.  Youtube TV did not recognize our area of operation, but we changed our home location and now we have local TV.  All that takes time!  It’s frustrating.

 

I tried to work in the yard and to roto-till my garden.  However, when I tugged on the pull cord, the cord broke!  Then it took me time and some thinking to discover the secret of re-installing the pull cord so it would retract.  After an hour or so, after some tinkering and multiple tries, and after some frustration, I finally did get my garden tilled for the summer. I am thankful that is done.  I wish didn’t have so many detours on the way to accomplishing this labor of love.

 

And of course, one of my first priorities was to get my boat in the water.  My friend and boat-builder installed a new outboard motor last year.  I had agreed to work with my friend as I launched my boat for the first time with the new motor.  I charged the boat battery and took it to the shop. But, when I turned the key I only got a beep.  The engine did not move, nor did the tachometer react.  You perhaps know that I spend much time fishing. 😊  However, without a boat, plans change.  Again, after arriving home to Alaska, and while seeking to return to normal, I was frustrated!

 

Finally, I did get all my tools and technology working.  But what did I accomplish in all those minor, frustrating, distracting tasks?  Was all the time spent fruitful for good?  I asked myself those questions and thought about God’s words at the beginning of the Book of Ecclesiastes.  “² Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher, vanity of vanities! All is vanity. ³ What does man gain by all the toil at which he toils under the sun? (Ecclesiastes 1:2-3)  Good question, King Solomon!  What is the purpose of all the tasks of life?

 

First, let me assure you that God does have a purpose for our lives, and even for our daily chores. Consider the words from God written by St. Paul in 1 Corinthians 10:31. “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”  Our purpose in life, in whatever we do, no matter how small or frustrating the task, is to glorify our Creator, our Lord, our Savior.

 

Perhaps also consider with me Colossians 3:17. ^“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Because Jesus died and rose to save us, to restore our relationship with our Heavenly Father, we “do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus,” even the seemingly mundane and frustrating tasks of life.

 

Do you think Jesus was ever frustrated?  Did His ministry ever feel pointless?  In John 17, in the upper room on the night that Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, on the night He instituted the Lord’s Supper, before Jesus walked to the Garden of Gethsemane, He also prayed for His followers, for the Church.  Jesus’ prayer began in this way, with these words, “When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, "Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you,” (John 17:1)  Consider how Jesus gave glory to His Father, and glorified Himself.  Jesus gave His life!  He was arrested, lied about, beaten and whipped.  He received an unjust trial and died on the cross.  This sacrifice from the holy Son of God seemed pointless to His disciples.  However, even facing these difficult and surely frustrating tasks, Jesus honored His Father and loved the world.  His crucifixion was not meaningless!  As Jesus gave of Himself, as He served, He accomplished the purpose His Father had for Him.  He saved us!

 

As you deal with necessary chores, many of which you did not choose, do you ever wonder what purpose you are serving, or if you are accomplishing anything worthwhile?  In many ways it is not so much the chores, but how we face them.  Can I approach these seemingly mundane tasks while serving my Lord and loving others?  If so, then even the frustrations of returning home are worthwhile.  In fact, because Jesus served me, I want to deal with life’s frustrations . . . for Him.

 

A Child of God, Wondering Why Life Can Be Frustrating, Seeking to Serve My Savior,

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I have concluded my service as part-time assistant pastor at First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, Florida,

Kathy and I returned home to Alaska on May 5.

I will now be serving Our Redeemer Lutheran in Chugiak, AK, as Vacancy Pastor beginning May 16.

 

·       THANK YOU!!!!  Again, Kathy and I are truly grateful for the opportunity to serve First Lutheran during the recent vacancy.  This is the church where I grew up and my family made our home.  This is the church where Kathy and I worship when visiting Gainesville.  This is the congregation which encouraged me for ministry and sent me away to study to become a pastor.  First Lutheran has nurtured me and my family.  We are thankful God gave us the opportunity to serve in this special congregation for the last 20 months!  Again, THANK YOU, and God’s continued blessings!

 

·       MORE FAREWELL SUNDAY  -  I was not the permanent pastor, simply the Vacancy Pastor at First Lutheran.  But that is my home congregation.  And, even as a vacancy pastor, First Lutheran put on quite a farewell celebration.  Thank you.  Here are some pictures, including some new ones from the farewell celebration..  https://photos.app.goo.gl/LR4epTWnPj1oFkuW7  

 

·       MANY OF YOU CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Thursday, May 15, we will finish the book of the prophet, Zephaniah!  Only two more books (Zechariah and Malachi until the New Testament!

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:

 

·       Family Time –

o   The view of the mountains from our yard was beautiful on May 6 and May 8.  Here are a couple of pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/7C4TrJVSW5qQxzPA8

 

o   A group of our family attended Jacob’s high school baseball game on Friday, May 9.  Here are a couple of pictures.

 

o   I tilled the garden. https://photos.app.goo.gl/YhWEXRdfBgaN2NQa9  

 

o   I was thinking of planting, but on Saturday and Sunday the temperatures were below freezing.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Mg2NPQPxCykqKccw9

 

o   On Sunday evening, May 11, we gathered to celebrate Mother’s Day, and to celebrate my birthday.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Z5gBXWxQYS88RnEbA

 

 

 

 

 

*******

 

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)

 

  

If Life is Changed by Jesus’ Easter Victory, HOW Do We Live That New Life?

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

It is absolutely true that Jesus’ Easter resurrection changes the world, and changes our lives, forever!  Jesus has taken the sin of the world, the judgement and the punishment, and He paid the debt of sin through His suffering and death on the cross.  Yet, even more, Jesus’ resurrection has changed everything.  Yes, sin brings death, but Jesus has risen.  He offers eternal life through faith in His death and resurrection.  Yes, sin brings pain, suffering, guilt and broken relationships.  But Jesus’ resurrection also brings us new life in this world.  Yes, we still have an enemy who desires to destroy God’s creation and His people.  But that enemy has been judged, defeated, and destined to spend eternity in the lake of fire.

 

So, if life is changed by Jesus’ Easter victory, how do we live that new life?  We rejoiced in Jesus’ victory on Easter Sunday.  We have heard the accounts of Jesus restoration for His disciples, Thomas and Peter.  Those exciting accounts assure us that Jesus gives new life even to His doubting and failed children, so that they might continue to serve the one who died for them and rose again.  But now we are in the 50+ weeks after Easter.  If life is changed by Jesus’ Easter victory, how do we live that new life? 

 

In my daily devotions from the Today’s Light Bible on Tuesday, May 6, I read from Micah 4.  In verse 2, as God calls His wandering sheep back to His grace, we read these words,  “’Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.’ For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.”  As I read this verse it struck me that our Lord’s path is a road map teaching God’s people how we can live throughout our days in the wilderness.

 

We seek the ‘teaching,’ the lessons of our Lord.  Our God created this world. Therefore, He knows best what benefits our relationships, especially our relationship with our Heavenly Father.  As Creator, the Lord knows best what makes us healthy physically.  Who does not need help and direction?  What does not need the teaching which our Heavenly Father gives?

 

Micah delineates even more how God gives this help.  He gives His law, God’s path for healthy living.  The Heavenly Father gives His Word.  Perhaps you remember Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”  Through His law and His Word, our Lord guides us.

 

However, when Christians read that God gives His ‘word,’ we also think ‘Word.’  “1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ² He was in the beginning with God. ³ All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. . . ¹⁴ And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:1-3,14) Scripture names Jesus “The Word of God,” Jesus, is our Lord’s best communication of who He is, how He loves us, and His relationship with us. Jesus is our source for grace and truth.

 

Where do we find this teaching of the Lord.  Where do we find His law and His Word.  The beginning of Micah 4:2 calls us, "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob”  God is calling people to His Church.  Have you thought about how important God’s church is, how important worship is, to the health of God’s people? Have you considered how important worship is to living in Jesus’ Easter victory? Do you ever struggle with persevering in the new life we have as people who follow a risen Savior?  How is your worship life? There is an old saying. “If God seems far away, guess who moved!”

 

When the excitement of ‘near Easter’ is in the past, God has a plan for how we live in Jesus’ Easter victory.  We seek the teaching of God, we seek His guidance in the law. We seek His Word.  We seek Jesus, in His Church, in regular worship! So, ARE you regular in worship?  Are you giving your Lord a chance to teach you, to guide you with His law, to fill you with His Word?

 

Imagine finding a plan for Christian Easter living in the Old Testament book of Micah! "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths." For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.”

 

A Child of God, Thankful for a Plan for Easter Living Throughout the Year - God's Church

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I have concluded my service as part-time assistant pastor at First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, Florida,

Kathy and I returned home to Alaska on May 5.

I will now be serving Our Redeemer Lutheran in Chugiak, AK, as Vacancy Pastor beginning May 16.

 

·       THANK YOU!!!!  Again, Kathy and I are truly grateful for the opportunity to serve First Lutheran during the recent vacancy.  This is the church where I grew up and my family made our home.  This is the church where Kathy and I worship when visiting Gainesville.  This is the congregation which encouraged me for ministry and sent me away to study to become a pastor.  First Lutheran has nurtured me and my family.  We are thankful God gave us the opportunity to serve in this special congregation for the last 20 months!  Again, THANK YOU, and God’s continued blessings!

 

·       FAREWELL SUNDAY  -  I was not the permanent pastor, simply the Vacancy Pastor at First Lutheran.  But that is my home congregation.  And, even as a vacancy pastor, First Lutheran put on quite a farewell celebration.  Thank you.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/z6CR7PHLSLgqKEUn6

 

·       MANY OF YOU CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Wednesday, May 7, we read Micah 5, the Scripture which prophesies that Bethlehem would be the birthplace of the Good Shepherd, the One who ‘is our peace.’

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:

 

·       Wedding – On Saturday, May 3, Kathy and I were blessed to attend the Wedding of Elizabeth Rockey and Peter Robbins.  Perhaps you know that Elizabeth is the oldest daughter of my brother, James, and his wife, Martha.  Here are some wedding pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/8FsgJpzhKWqWzVaK9

 

·       No Fishing – My last week in Florida was busy with preparations to leave, and family events, and busy with . . . golf.  I did not fish!  O well, we are now in Alaska.

 

*******

 

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 First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL.)

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)

 

 

Blessed Because my Lord Keeps Me in all the Goings and Comings of Life!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

One of my all-time favorite sections of Scripture is Psalm 121.  I often read these verses to homebound people I visit, or to those in the hospital.   Psalm 121 promises that the Lord is our keeper physically and spiritually, night and day, now and eternally.  When I was first pastor at St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer, Alaska, I visited Karl Kopperud’s dad, Herb Kopperud, in his home. I read this section of God’s word.  After I read this Psalm, before I made any comments or prayed with and for Herb, Claire Kopperud, Herb’s wife and Karl’s mom responded, “Oh, the Palmer Psalm.”  Perhaps you know the well-known first two verses of Psalm 121.  “1 I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? ² My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.” Claire called Psalm 121 ‘The Palmer Psalm’ because Palmer is beautifully surrounded by mountains.  So, God’s children in Palmer can look to the mountains surrounding our town, and think of our Lord’s loving help.

 

However, the last verse of this short Psalm also speaks to my heart.  In fact, I find verse 8 especially helpful in my life right now.  “The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore” The Lord keeps us in our comings and goings. In the next few days Kathy and I have full lives.  We are not complaining.  All our ‘adventures’ promise possible blessings.  Nevertheless, it is helpful to know the Lord keeps us in all these goings and comings.

 

We are preparing for the end of my time serving as vacancy pastor at First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL, to return home to our family in Palmer.  We have been here 20 months.  Pastor Chris Kollman has been installed and is now serving First Lutheran with wisdom and faith and energy.  Yet, during our time at First Lutheran Kathy and I have connected with God’s people in this place with bonds of faith and love.  Sunday, May 4 will be my last Sunday to preach at my childhood home congregation for at least 5 months.  There will be lots of good bye’s before we drive to Tampa for our plane.  It is good that the Lord keeps us in all our goings and comings!

 

After 20 months, preparation for our return trip will take a little more than just packing.  What do we take?  What do we leave? Thankfully, the Lord keeps us in all our goings and comings.

 

On Tuesday, April 29, I finally got my car back from the body shop after I was hit at a stoplight on Saturday, April 5.  Now, to check it out and make sure everything is working.  And, I need to move all the tools and supplies which I had taken out back into my vehicle.  Praise God no one was hurt in the accident.  Thankfully, the Lord keeps us in all our goings and comings.

 

We have a Rockey family celebration on Saturday, May 3, for brother James’ daughter, Elizabeth.  Elizabeth is marrying Peter Robbins in a ceremony at New Smyrna Beach.  We will be there for the festivities.  I am comforted to know for Peter and Elizabeth that the Lord keeps us in all our goings and comings.

 

I received a surprise on Sunday night, April 13, which caused Kathy to exclaim, “Who says God doesn’t have a sense of humor?”  After preaching at the morning Palm Sunday worship service, and after fishing in the afternoon, I received a text from Forrest Wacker, head Elder at Our Redeemer Lutheran in Chugiak, AK.  This congregation is 20 miles south of our home in Palmer.  Forrest inquired if I might be available to help in their coming vacancy.  I truly respect their shepherd, Pastor James Baumgartner.  I did not know he had a call.  But, he will soon be in St. Louis working with Jesus’ larger church supporting missionaries for the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod.  James’ leaving will be a BIG loss.  Yet, Kathy and I had planned to stay in Alaska at least into October.  So, I have agreed to help Our Redeemer during this time. It is truly good that the Lord keeps us in all our goings and comings.

 

On Sunday, April 27, I attended the Mission and Ministry Council meeting at First Lutheran after worship.  However, after making my report I left to help a man in need of a bus ticket.  That was a bigger chore than it looked at first.  On Tuesday, April 29, First Lutheran Pastor, Chris Kollmann, informed me that after I left the meeting the Council had voted to put my one quarter time salary into the 2025-2026 budget for 6 months.  While I knew the meeting included budget discussion, I did not realize this was up for consideration.  I am truly thankful that the Lord keeps us in all our goings and comings.

 

When life is full I seek to remember the ‘journey’ my savior took.  Do you know 2 Corinthians 8:9?  God inspired the Apostle Paul to write, “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” Jesus’ journey took him from the riches of heaven, to the sin, to the suffering, to the death and poverty of this world.  Jesus traveled from heaven to earth so that by His suffering and death and rising we can receive the riches and the joys of heaven.  THANK YOU, JESUS!!  We are so blessed that the Lord keeps us in all our goings and comings.

 

What do you face in your life?  I pray that you find strength in God’s truth from Psalm 121 that “The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore!”

 

A Child of God, Blessed Because my Lord Keeps Me in all the Goings and Comings of Life!

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  Here is the full text of Psalm 121 – The Palmer Psalm.

Psalm 121 A Song of Ascents.

1 I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come?

 ² My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.

 ³ He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber.

 ⁴ Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.

 ⁵ The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade on your right hand.

 ⁶ The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night.

 ⁷ The LORD will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life.

 ⁸ The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore.

 

P.P.S  I am concluding my service as part-time assistant pastor at First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, Florida, with Pastor Chris Kollmann.

Kathy and I will return home to Alaska on May 5.

 

·       THANK YOU!!!!  Kathy and I are truly grateful for the opportunity to serve First Lutheran during the recent vacancy.  This is the church where I grew up and my family made our home.  This is the church where Kathy and I worship when visiting Gainesville.  This is the congregation which encouraged me for ministry and sent me away to study to become a pastor.  First Lutheran has nurtured me and my family.  We are thankful God gave us the opportunity to serve in this special congregation for the last 20 months!  Again, THANK YOU, and God’s continued blessings!

 

·       WE CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Tuesday, April 29, we read Amos 9.

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!

 

·       SUNDAY SCHOOL IS IN FULL SWING until May, and it is GROWING! Children begin in worship at 10:00 a.m..  Early in the service, after the Children’s Message, children leave for a Sunday School lesson, for a craft, and a snack. 

Parents, Grandparents, Uncles and Aunts, Neighbors, PLEASE bring your children to Sunday School. 

THANK YOU Sunday School Teachers and staff!

 

 

P.P.P.S. Fishing and Family Fun:

 

·       We held the ‘annual’ Florida Rockey Fish fry and invited family, church friends, neighbors, golf friends, to this April 26 gathering.  We count that a total of 51 people attended.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/RCCjekAM4WbjDdkeA

 

·       Fishing – I went fishing with golf friend, Mike Abernathy on Friday, April 25.  We caught fish for the fish fry the next day!  😊  Here are some pictures!  https://photos.app.goo.gl/eX3324E2QGnnPCkZ7

 

 

 

 

*******

 

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 First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL.)

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, First Lutheran Church, Gainesville, FL

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)

 

 

Is Jesus' Easter Victory PERSONAL For You?

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

As I was preparing for a golf tournament on Monday morning, April 21, the day after Easter, a friend told me, “Hey Rock, the Catholic Church will be calling you.  Pope Francis died.”  His words were obviously meant jokingly. Sometimes we humans use humor to deal with loss and grief. Yet, I had not yet heard about the pope passing.  In truth, I pray every morning that God strengthens the ‘Holy Christian Church’ on earth to ‘boldly proclaim the Gospel of Jesus’ (Ephesians 6:18b-20). Even though I am a Lutheran Christian, I will be praying for the Roman Catholic Church to find a faithful and effective new leader.  Shepherds and leaders are important for our Lord’s church as it works to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus.

 

As I was thinking about this news, it seemed appropriate to me that the day after Easter was the day Pope Francis died.  Death is almost always bad news.  But, because of Easter, Christians do not face death as the end of life. Christians instead see death as the beginning of eternity with our Lord.  There is a way in which the pope’s death can communicate and even celebrate Jesus’ Easter victory in the pope’s life, and also proclaim Jesus’ Easter victory for our lives.

 

Then I began thinking about my prayer list.  I revised my current list on December 9, 2024.  Since that time TEN people for whom I was praying were taken to heaven.  That is a LOT!  I have never before had so many people for whom I was praying die in so short a time.  My list includes friends and church members in Alaska, and also Florida, people I know and care about. 

 

Among those whom the Lord has called home since December 9 are Jody Kolberg Fenton. Jody grew up at St. John in Palmer, but when she married Murray, they moved to Soldotna.  I baptized their daughters.  God also called Karen Nystrom Sorenson home.  Karen is the sister of Mike Nystrom, a very active member of St. John.  Another victim of cancer is Gary Reaves, my brother-in-law Mark’s brother, I hunted moose with Tom Anderson, Tom and his wife Marilyn lived in Kenai, but both had cancer.  I visited them in their home and brought communion.  Both Tom and Marilyn passed away in the past couple of months. Last summer good friend Paul Scott asked me to pray for his almost 4 year old granddaughter, Rylee Chavez.  Rylee made it longer than the doctors expected, but she died in January of brain cancer.  Kathy and I also received word in January that long-time friend, Carolyn Dwight, succumbed to dementia. I visited with Carolyn’s husband, Rick, after her death. I first visited Guillermo Luna-Victoria in September of 2023 in the ICU in Gainesville, FL.  Guillermo, or Billy, died this month on April 3 of multiple health issues after almost 20 months in the hospital.  Steve Brown was a good friend I knew from my Palmer Kiwanis Club.  Steve died unexpectedly, and his memorial service is being held in Palmer on May 10., Finally, Pastor Phil Kuehnert served in Fairbanks, Alaska, during my time in Palmer.  Even after he retired and moved to Virginia, we kept in touch. We even communicated in the last month or so.  But Phil died from heart failure during holy week, 2025.  That list doesn’t even include three other families whom I pray for because they have lost loved ones in the past twelve months, the family of Luke Peltier, and Sandra Garley, and Jeff Overstreet! 

 

Perhaps you can tell from my sharing that I knew all these people, or their families, quite well.  I cared for them.  This IS personal.  And, like the pope, those are people I prayed for who are now experiencing Jesus’ Easter victory in heaven. 

 

Is Easter personal for you?  Jesus did much to prepare His disciples for His coming crucifixion and death.  He knew His cross would shock and overwhelm those he cared about.  However, Jesus’ suffering and death had a purpose.  We have rebelled and sinned against the Creator and Lord of our universe.  Our waywardness separates us from the God of life and love.  That is why Jesus, the Son of God, died.  Hebrews 2:17 teaches us, “Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.”  Jesus became human, He suffered and died to pay the debt which our sin against God demands.

 

Thankfully, God’s eternal plan was that sin would not win through death.  Instead, God planned that as Jesus died, He would defeat sin and death through His resurrection.  Listen to what Jesus taught His disciples the night when He was betrayed.  “Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live.” (John 14:19)

 

Again I ask, “Is Easter personal for you?”  Sadly, that long list of my friends and former church members passed away.  I cared about them.  I care about them.  But I believe the words of Jesus.  Because I live, you also will live.  Easter brings God’s good news which is personal for me.

 

If the death of Pope Francis the day after Easter was a good opportunity to communicate and celebrate Jesus’ resurrection victory, Easter brings good news for me too.  My friends and fellow Christians may have died, but they are NOT dead.  Jesus rose.  Because he lives, THEY LIVE!

 

Easter is not just a religious story. Easter is not just an historic event. Jesus’ resurrection is real, and it affects us. Easter blesses us personally as we live through the struggles and losses of this life.  I grieve the loss of friends and loved ones, but I celebrate their life in heaven.  As Jesus proclaimed, “Because I live, you also will live!”

 

A Child of God, THANKFUL that Jesus’ Easter Resurrection Brings PERSONAL Good News!

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  Other versions of John 14:19

·       KJV John 14:19 Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also.

 

·       NIV John 14:19 Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live.

 

·       NAS John 14:19 "After a little while the world will behold Me no more; but you will behold Me; because I live, you shall live also.

 

·       NKJ John 14:19 " A little while longer and the world will see Me no more, but you will see Me. Because I live, you will live also.

 

 

P.P.S.   I continue to serve as part-time assistant pastor at First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, Florida, with Pastor Chris Kollmann.

Kathy and I will return home to Alaska on May 5.

 

·       HOLY WEEK AT FLC

o   Here are some pictures from the Passover meal preparation and celebration.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/wvjQ1pLUVJZ5KAq1A

 

o   Here is a picture of the FLC bell choir practicing at 7:30 a.m. on Easter Sunday morning. https://photos.app.goo.gl/rJnVhwpweeupGvCz7

 

·       THANK YOU!!!!  Kathy and I are truly grateful for the opportunity to serve First Lutheran during the recent vacancy.  This is the church where I grew up and my family made our home.  This is the church where Kathy and I worship when visiting Gainesville.  This is the congregation which encouraged me for ministry and sent me away to study to become a pastor.  First Lutheran has nurtured me and my family.  We are thankful God gave us the opportunity to serve in this special congregation for the last 20 months!  Again, THANK YOU, and God’s continued blessings!

 

·       WE CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURE IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Tuesday, April 2, we finished the book of Joel.

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!

 

·       SUNDAY SCHOOL IS IN FULL SWING until May, and it is GROWING! Children begin in worship at 10:00 a.m..  Early in the service, after the Children’s Message, children leave for a Sunday School lesson, for a craft, and a snack. 

Parents, Grandparents, Uncles and Aunts, Neighbors, PLEASE bring your children to Sunday School. 

THANK YOU Sunday School Teachers and staff!

 

·       COLLEGE STUDENTS AND YOUNG ADULTS met for their final study last Tuesday night, April 22,  in the student house at 7:00 p.m.  We have been studying “The Case for Christ” and discussing defending our Christian faith in a world of doubt.  On Tuesday, April 22, we will watch a movie based on this book.  Come and join us!   

ALSO, there will be College Lunch for students in the Fellowship Hall after worship.

 

P.P.P.S. Fishing and Family Fun:

 

·       The Florida Rockeys Gathered for Easter on Saturday, April 19.  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/4QxkAcsbnJZrUehr6

 

·       Fishing – With Holy Week I was busy and did not fish many times.  HOWEVER, when I did fish, it was productive!  I think God turned on the switch for the big bass to bite.  I have caught big bass before.  But, I have over 300 trips in my Florida boat.  When I have caught a 5 lb. bass, or bigger, I have only ever caught one per trip.  On Easter Sunday afternoon the Lord blessed me with 2 - 5 lb. bass and 2 6- bass. 

The only problem is by law a person can only keep one fish a day 16” or over.  I caught 4 fish over 20”.  I kept the first for an upcoming fish fry, and released the other 3.  I wanted some smaller fish, but only caught 2 of those.  Here are some pictures.

 

o   I went fishing at Rodman Reservoir and put in around 3:30 p.m.  I caught this 21” fish after about 5 or 10 minutes of fishing.  😊 https://photos.app.goo.gl/eP6HNTpfKaat8GUZ9

 

o   I caught a couple more smaller fish, and then crossed to the other side of the reservoir.  I was surprised to bring in this 20 ½” bass.  This one was fatter, probably full of eggs.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/WPBvcFLRSVJy9RMZ8

 

o   The sun was behind me when I caught this fish.  It measured 22” on my ruler on the side of the boat.  The picture is not great, but you get the idea. This was also a ‘fatter’ fish.   https://photos.app.goo.gl/xJ277Bc4s97nSwun9  

 

o   As I was pulling in I had a few more bites.  I caught the last one which, when I was measuring it, was a little over 22”.  However, I dropped it into the water while measuring.  But I could not have kept it.  No picture for the fourth large fish.  ☹

 

o   This is a scale I use to determine how much a fish weighs.  It is an estimate, but helps.  I have a scale on the rail of the boat.  I measure the fish and determine it’s weight from the scale.  😊 https://photos.app.goo.gl/A7UVdj4s4vieZbAT8

 

o   On Monday, April 14, after a game of golf, I went fishing for the first time on Lake Wauburg.  Here is the only picture.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/pubZ9Fm78ijgjQdj9

 

 

 

 

*******

 

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 First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL.)

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, First Lutheran Church, Gainesville, FL

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)