Amen! COME, Lord Jesus!

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

Do you remember waiting for Christmas morning? I shared recently with the members of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Chugiak, that, as a child, I would wait for weeks, getting more excited as the day came closer. I was always worried because of some trouble I had gotten into.  Would I get coal?  The night before Christmas, I struggled to go to sleep. I waited with anticipation for Christmas morning.

 

Of course, part of that excitement for a young boy was because of the presents.  Nevertheless, the whole day was special. It was different.  Often during the year my parents spent time correcting me, for good reason. I got in trouble at school. I was scolded and punished for fights with my brother.  BUT, on Christmas that was all set aside.  Family would gather.  My grandparents came over.  We went to church and had a nice meal together.  It was a feast of love.  I am thankful that in our family our feast of love centered in celebrating the birth of Jesus, our Savior. 

 

Yet, even though I am no where close to being a child any longer, I still wait for the celebration of Christmas.  In fact, as I read through my 2 year “Today’s Light Bible,” I am again nearing the end.  I am reading in the book of Revelation.  Therefore, I can echo the prayer at the end of that book.  Jesus declares, "Surely I am coming soon." And the Apostle John replies, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20)  Yes, Amen!  Come, Lord Jesus!

 

As I write this devotion on December 17, the horrible news of the past week still causes me sadness.  There was a mass shooting in Australia this weekend at a Jewish celebration for the beginning of Hannukkah.  Two students were also killed and others wounded in a shooting at Brown University in Providence, RI.  As I read through the prophetic book of Revelation, the people of John’s time were facing violence, and persecution, and other challenges to their faith.  God gave this revelation to John in order to assure disciples of Jesus that “Yes, he HAD died for their sins,” and that “Yes, Jesus HAD risen and defeated sin and death.”  In spite of their trials God had not abandoned them.  So, they prayed for Jesus to come again. In the trials of our world today I also join in praying, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!”

 

However, my faith is not just challenged from outside my mind and heart. I also struggle inside myself, with doubt and anger and temptation.  I struggle to be faithful.  I recently read in my daily readings about the seven churches to whom John addressed this final book of Scripture.  Two of the seven churches were indeed faithful in the midst of persecution and even martyrdom.  But many of those churches to whom John wrote were wavering in their faithfulness to the one who had suffered and had died for them.  For example, John wrote to the church of Laodicea, “¹⁵I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot!  ¹⁶ So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.  ¹⁷ For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.”  Revelation 3:15-17)  Obviously, our Lord wants disciples who are fully committed to Him.  God is not happy when we obey, or worship, or thank, or praise Him just once in a while, only when we feel like it, only when we are in need.  One of my prayers for Christmas is that the love of God shines through the miraculous birth of Jesus and again touches hearts.  I pray that the self-giving, saving love of God, lights a spark again in the hearts of believers, a spark which keeps burning faithfully.  Therefore, I pray, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!”

 

This coming Sunday, December 21, the 4^th Sunday in Advent, the assigned readings are from Isaiah 7 and Matthew 1.  In both of these readings we are taught about Jesus, “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us).” (Matthew 1:23, Isaiah 7:14)  That, after all, is what I really need.  I need to know Jesus and His presence as I celebrate Christmas.  I need to know Jesus and His presence in order to receive the real gifts of peace and joy this year.  I need Jesus and His presence through all the craziness in our world, waiting for Him to come again.  I need Jesus and His presence in the trials of my own weakness.

 

So, this Christmas I again echo John’s prayer.  “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!”

 

A Child of God, Waiting and Hoping to Receive Jesus this Christmas, and Eternally!

Pastor Rockey

 

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

 

·       Pastor Craig Schultz will begin serving Our Redeemer as Interim / Vacancy Pastor in January.  Pastor Rockey’s last Sunday at Our Redeemer is January 4.  Then he will go to Gainesville, FL, and serve there where he was scheduled to return this past fall.  Pastor Schultz will preach at Anchorage Lutheran Church on January 4, and then Our Redeemer Lutheran on January 11, 2026.

 

·       SPECIAL HOLIDAY WORSHIP SERVICES:  In addition to regular Sunday worship at 10:00 each week, Our Redeemer has planned special worship services through the Holidays.  There are services every Wednesday, AND Christmas Day.  You might note these on your calendar

o   Mid-Week Advent 3 Worship, The Angel and Joseph - Wednesday, December 17, at 6:30 p.m.

o   Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship

§  Focus on Children – Wednesday, December 24, 5:00 p.m.

§  Christmas Eve for all – Wednesday, December 24, 7:00 p.m.

o   Christmas Day Worship – Thursday, December 25, 10:00 a.m.

o   New Year’s Eve Worship – Wednesday, December 31, at 6:30 p.m.

 

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

The first step in the call process was to complete a congregational self-study we received from the Northwest District.  The committee asked for and received input from ORLC for this study.  Nomination forms for names for a new pastor were also distributed.  The self-study, and nominations for pastor, were indeed sent to the Northwest District by October 1, 2025. 

Our Redeemer received a list of names of possible future pastors for Our Redeemer from the Northwest District on Wednesday, November 26. The committee met on Tuesday, December 9 to clarify their responsibilities, and they will meet again in early January to prepare to contact the pastors whose names we have received.

 

OTHER EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES AT OUR REDEEMER:

 

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

o   Matt Keith leads Chayon Ryu Martial Arts Class on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. in the Our Redeemer Fellowship Hall

 

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

 

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

 

·       An Adult Fellowship Potluck is held the first Tuesday of each month at 11:30 a.m.   

 

• Youth Group meets after worship on one Sunday each month.   The will NOT meet in December, but return in January.

 

·       A Memory Café for families dealing with the issues of dementia was held at Our Redeemer on Friday November 14.  There was good attendance, including some families from the community.  The next Memory Café is scheduled for Friday, December 12 at 11:00 a.m..

 

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

 

Regular Bible Studies and Sunday School

 

·       Adult Bible Study continues on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m.   The class FINISHED studying “Basic Christian Teachings.” We are now be enjoying Bible Study’s based on Garrison Keillor monologues, specifically for holiday issues.   On Sunday, December 14, Keillor’s monologue is entitled, “James Lundeen’s Christmas.”  Come and join us!

 

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

 

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

 

·       Confirmation classes began on Sunday, October 12, after worship services.  We finished fall Confirmation classes on Sunday, December 7.  This fall we studied about the Lord’s Prayer.  Confirmation Classes resume on Sunday, January 4 after church.  We will study about the Sacraments.  Watch for more information.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURES WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Wednesday, December 17, we read through Revelation 9. We will soon have completed reading the Scriptures in a 2 year period!   

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

 

P.P.P.S. Family Fun and Fishing! 

 

·       We paid to have lights put on our 30’ blue spruce tree in the front yard, last Wednesday. The wind disconnected some lights on December 7.  However, during a short lull in the wind, I also set up our lighted outdoor nativity.  Here is a picture from last Thusday, December 11.  Of course, the wind began blowing again on Saturday and Sunday, January 13 and 14.  We continue the battle.  Here is a picture from last Thursday.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/CQKsnpqdWym9e3uB8

 

·       On Saturday, December 13, we had our annual Christmas tree cutting outing.  Thanks to the Roelffs’ family for saving a tree on their property we could cut this year.  Here are some pictures of our tree.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/iz5MmdeLE9Bmq1LF9

 

·       Mary took pictures of Jake's dog, Eska.  This is a blanket she gave Jake for Christmas. https://photos.app.goo.gl/5WMxvGdBbCdBJy6H9

 

·       Kathy made Christmas quilts for all the grandchildren, and she wanted them to have their Christmas quilts FOR Christmas.  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/Yt3zdCkpxxu3gekQ6

 

·       I have hoped, and even planned, to go ice fishing.  However, on days I have had free the wind is blowing with gusts up to 90 mph.  Thankfully our power did not go out again.  I haven’t been fishing, but here are a couple of weather reports. https://photos.app.goo.gl/3Nf9DnSkedVsobAYA

 

 

 

*******

 

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) 

Whew - THE WIND!!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

On Tuesday morning, December 9, I looked at my wife and let out a sigh as I declared, “Whew!  We made it through!”  She simply replied, "We made it through.”  On Friday we saw the weather forecast of a coming windstorm.  These storms happen in the Mat-Su Valley, usually in the winter.  One newspaper report talked of 80 mph gusts with this storm.  However, we have had stronger storms.  I was once told that this wind is a result of the “Venturi Effect,” because of the narrow Matanuska River canyon.  I also read this week that the National Weather Service calls this type of phenomenon a “Bora.”  Either way Kathy tells me, “In Florida when a hurricane arrives they give it a name, and the winds last 8-12 hours.  In Palmer when the wind blows for days, people just say, ‘The wind is blowing in Palmer.’”

 

Our power went out right after supper on Saturday evening around 6:30 p.m., and returned about 36 hours later on Monday morning around 5:30 a.m.  So I woke on Sunday morning for church with a flashlight, thankful for a shower the previous morning.  We disconnected the garage door and manually lifted the door.  My breakfast came from the Eagle River McDonald’s drive-thru.  We ran our gas fire place during those 36 hours, because our heat was not working. We also fired up a Little Buddy propane heater and put it in our garage under our hot water heater, since the dog water had a film of ice. 

 

I checked on an elderly next door neighbor, and also went to see how our son, Andrew, was doing.  Then, on Sunday evening our neighbors, who have a generator and therefore did have power, noticed us in our living room reading by flashlight, of which thankfully we have a good supply.  They invited us over for some warmth and a meal. We had a really nice visit.

 

By far, we were not the folks with the longest power outage.  Our son’s power went out before ours while he was at work, and did not come back on until about 14 or 15 hours later than ours did.  We know of other people who endured even longer outages.

 

On Monday, as the power returned and life started to return to normal, I picked up around our house.  A birdhouse had blown off it’s post.  Our flag pole was out of the holder.  Our grills had been blown off our back porch.  I had some repair to do to a hose holder.  We now have to do work again on the lights on our front yard Christmas tree.  But, others lost trees, roofs, fences, sheds, outhouses, and other items in their yards and on their houses.  We got off easy, I think.

 

I started thinking (as a Christian pastor might) about windstorms in the Bible.  Elijah awaited the coming of the Lord in 1 Kings 19:11.  We read, “ . . . a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind.”  Paul endured a ‘northeaster’ on a large cargo ship with 275 other people on the Mediterranean Sea for 14 days. (Acts 27) But the verse that stuck in my mind is from Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus in John 3.  As Nicodemus questions Jesus about how people are “born again,” Jesus replies, “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit." (John 3:8)

 

Where DOES the wind come from?  I read of jet streams, high and low pressure, of various weather forecasts and geological features.  Yet, why at one time does the jet stream move in one direction, and in another at other times?  What causes the high and low pressure systems to stay, or to move? Who causes, or created, the geology of our area, and other areas of the world?  Jesus says of the wind, “you do not know where it comes from or where it goes.”  I believe that even educated scientists and meteorologists can not tell us what our weather will be a year from now.  But, there is one who does know; the Lord God, the Creator of the Earth.

 

Instructive to me, Jesus compares the coming of the wind to being ‘born of the Spirit.’ He compares the source of the wind to a person coming to faith.  We don’t always understand how and when a person is ‘born of the Spirt.’ Still, Jesus does call Nicodemus, and He does call us to this mysterious birth, to this life of faith.  He tells Nicodemus, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." (John 3:3), and further explains, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” (John 3:5)  I understand Jesus to say that He works through the Holy Spirit and through baptism to bring people to faith.  Yet, when that happens it’s still a mystery.

 

The truth is that the wind can and does disrupt our lives.  Buildings are damaged.  Power goes out. Schools and businesses close. The new birth of faith in Jesus changes our lives too.  We don’t have to wonder if we are loved, and therefore do TO others before they do to us.  Instead, we can live in the assurance of the love of our Heavenly Father who sent His Son.  Our priorities change when Jesus comes through faith.  We don’t live for ourselves, but “for Him who died for us and rose again.” (2 Corinthians 5:15 b).  We need fear nothing in this world because, as Jesus told Nicodemus, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)

 

A windstorm may stop our lives for a bit, and cause some life issues.  The coming of Jesus, through believing in Him, changes our lives for eternity, and bring everlasting life, and love, and blessings!  Blow in my life, Lord, Jesus!

 

A Child of God, Blown Around by the Alaskan Winds, Desiring the Winds of Jesus!

Pastor Rockey

 

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

 

·       Pastor Craig Schultz will begin serving Our Redeemer as Interim / Vacancy Pastor in January.  Pastor Rockey’s last Sunday at Our Redeemer is January 4.  Then he will go to Gainesville, FL, and serve there where he was scheduled to return this past fall.  Pastor Schultz will preach at Anchorage Lutheran Church on January 4, and then Our Redeemer Lutheran on January 11, 2026.

 

·       SPECIAL HOLIDAY WORSHIP SERVICES:  In addition to regular Sunday worship at 10:00 each week, Our Redeemer has planned special worship services through the Holidays.  There are services every Wednesday, AND Christmas Day.  You might note these on your calendar

o   Mid-Week Advent 2 Worship, The Angel and Mary - Wednesday, December 10, at 6:30 p.m.

o   Mid-Week Advent 3 Worship, The Angel and Joseph - Wednesday, December 17, at 6:30 p.m.

o   Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship

§  Focus on Children – Wednesday, December 24, 5:00 p.m.

§  Christmas Eve for all – Wednesday, December 24, 7:00 p.m.

o   Christmas Day Worship – Thursday, December 25, 10:00 a.m.

o   New Year’s Eve Worship – Wednesday, December 31, at 6:30 p.m.

 

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

The first step in the call process was to complete a congregational self-study we received from the Northwest District.  The committee asked for and received input from ORLC for this study.  Nomination forms for names for a new pastor were also distributed.  The self-study, and nominations for pastor, were indeed sent to the Northwest District by October 1, 2025. 

Our Redeemer received a list of names of possible future pastors for Our Redeemer from the Northwest District on Wednesday, November 26.  The next meeting is Tuesday, December 9 at 6:30 p.m.

 

OTHER EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES AT OUR REDEEMER:

 

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

o   Matt Keith leads Chayon Ryu Martial Arts Class on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. in the Our Redeemer Fellowship Hall

 

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

 

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

 

·       An Adult Fellowship Potluck is held the first Tuesday of each month at 11:30 a.m.   

 

• Youth Group meets after worship on one Sunday each month.   The will NOT meet in December, but return in January.

 

·       A Memory Café for families dealing with the issues of dementia was held at Our Redeemer on Friday November 14.  There was good attendance, including some families from the community.  The next Memory Café is scheduled for Friday, December 12 at 11:00 a.m..

 

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

 

Regular Bible Studies and Sunday School

 

·       Adult Bible Study continues on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m.   The class FINISHED studying “Basic Christian Teachings.” We are now be enjoying Bible Study’s based on Garrison Keillor monologues, specifically for holiday issues.   On Sunday, December 14, Keillor’s monologue is entitled, “James Lundeen’s Christmas.”  Come and join us!

 

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

 

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

 

·       Confirmation classes began on Sunday, October 12, after worship services.  Our last class this Fall was on December 7.  Confirmation Classes resume in January.  Watch for more information.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURES WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Tuesday, December 9, we read 3 John. We will soon have completed reading the Scriptures in a 2 year period!   

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

 

P.P.P.S. Family Fun and Fishing! 

 

·       We paid to have lights put on our 30’ blue spruce tree in the front yard, last Wednesday.  THEN, the wind started last Saturday (or Friday night).  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/CsxUYMimMywTh2ZC8

 

·       I was scheduled to fish on Saturday, and planning on Monday.  But . . . THE WIND!  Here are a few wind pictures from our yard.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/hvomyfr5w3RBr5Gp7

 

·       Here are also a couple of news stories. 

 

o   Saturday https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/mat-su/2025/12/06/howling-mat-su-winds-leave-thousands-without-power/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Howling+Mat-Su+winds+leave+thousands+without+power+amid+gusty+weekend+forecast&utm_campaign=Newsletter+-+Weekend+subscriber+email+%2Amake+copy%2A+%28Copy%29&fbclid=IwY2xjawOlrq1leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFnT05SY05Gc3hKYnZJSHhLc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHvfSAbKhG5EJyERtSlQ3SIN7jElGIvev6IG8aCg5QDWbnk_VFoHl49LpGOjI_aem_sHByAhtvWjgFZzz7q6qEAg

o   Monday https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/mat-su/2025/12/07/emergency-shelter-opens-in-mat-su-as-thousands-remain-without-power-amid-hurricane-force-winds/

o   Tuesday, December 9 - https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/mat-su/2025/12/08/mat-su-residents-many-still-without-power-brace-for-another-day-of-wind/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Anchorage+mayor+defends+her+proposed+sales+tax+during+annual+address&utm_campaign=Newsletter+-+Daily+Tuesday+%2Amake+copy%2A+%28THROUGH+2025%29+%28Copy%29&fbclid=IwY2xjawOlrj5leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFnT05SY05Gc3hKYnZJSHhLc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHp8HIPDQV2HXd2f6Wa2Q5lJiwE7OcYLrjImpVvPMa1xhTgSOeJLF4owHvBFF_aem_I6kwfvfxafyG0k0ER3Bwqg

 

·       And, guess what, more wind is forecast this week!  ☹

 

 

*******

 

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)

 

WHO Are You Waiting For?

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

What will you go through as you wait for someone special?  Kathy and I were at the Ted Stevens International Airport in Anchorage on Tuesday evening, December 2.  We picked up our grandson, Jake, who had been in Washington with family.  As we awaited Jake’s arrival we did some ‘people watching.’  We did notice a young lady dressed in red plaid pajamas.  Another young woman impressed us with all the luggage one person carried.  She had a LARGE roller suitcase, a large duffle bag, and two large backpacks.  Nevertheless, in spite of all her baggage, she moved around well.

 

However, the person who really caught our eye was a mature woman, perhaps in her 60’s, who was picking up someone she obviously cared for.  This woman met another, more elderly lady, in a wheelchair.  At the luggage carousel she strapped together two large suitcases on wheels.  She put a carry bag on top of the suitcases.  She laid the cane of the lady in the wheelchair across her lap.  Then, she pushed the wheelchair with her right hand and pushed the luggage with her left hand.  As she walked away, with everything seemingly under control, she acted like she did this all the time.

 

This feat of physical organization by this woman was impressive on its own.  But what really struck me was that the woman pushing the lady in the wheel chair must really love her.  I wonder how long she waited for her arrival in Anchorage.  Imagine going through all this effort to bring her friend home!

 

Who are you waiting for?  Some parents await the return of a student from college.  Other await the visit of a parent or other family members.  A young couple may be waiting for the arrival of a new child.  Who are you waiting for?

 

This coming Sunday in many Christian congregations the Gospel reading will be from Matthew 3.  John the Baptist calls the people of his day to get ready for the arrival of the Messiah, the promised Savior, for Jesus.  John proclaims, ^“Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight." (Matthew 3:3 )  Actually, the people of God had long awaited the promised Messiah.  John instructs them to take steps to spiritually and physically prepare for the coming of Jesus.

 

Waiting for God to come into our lives is a common theme in Scripture. God comes in many ways: in strength to help and deliver, in mercy to comfort and forgive, in love to save.  Because God’s presence brings such blessings, we do wait, fervently.  Listen to Psalm 130, one of my favorites. “1 Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD! ² O Lord, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my pleas for mercy! ³ If you, O LORD, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand? ⁴ But with you there is forgiveness, that you may be feared. ⁵ I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; ⁶ my soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning, more than watchmen for the morning. ⁷ O Israel, hope in the LORD! For with the LORD there is steadfast love, and with him is plentiful redemption. ⁸ And he will redeem Israel from all his iniquities.”  (Psalm 130:1-7) Because of all the blessings God brings, we wait for Him . . . “more than watchmen for the morning!”

 

Christians are now observing the church season of ‘Advent.’  Advent means ‘coming.’  We await the coming of Jesus as the Son of God takes on human form, to save us.  We long to celebrate His birth.  We prepare to receive Him through His Word and Sacraments.  We await the time when Jesus will come again to take us home.  We rejoice in His blessings.  We share the coming of God’s Son into this sinful world so that others too may rejoice.

 

That woman in the airport who pushed 3 pieces of luggage with one hand, and her loved one in a wheelchair with her other hand, must have been longing for her arrival.  Are you preparing this Advent for the Christmas arrival of God’s promised Messiah, for the arrival of our Savior from our sins, of Jesus the Son of God?  How are you preparing?

 

A Child of God, Awaiting the Arrival of my Savior, Jesus!

Pastor Rockey

 

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

 

·       SPECIAL HOLIDAY WORSHIP SERVICES:  In addition to regular Sunday worship at 10:00 each week, Our Redeemer has planned special worship services through the Holidays.  There are services every Wednesday, AND Christmas Day.  You might note these on your calendar

o   Mid-Week Advent 1 Worship, The Angel and Zechariah - Wednesday, December 3, at 6:30 p.m.

o   Mid-Week Advent 2 Worship, The Angel and Mary - Wednesday, December 10, at 6:30 p.m.

o   Mid-Week Advent 3 Worship, The Angel and Joseph - Wednesday, December 17, at 6:30 p.m.

o   Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship

§  Focus on Children – Wednesday, December 24, 5:00 p.m.

§  Christmas Eve for all – Wednesday, December 24, 7:00 p.m.

o   Christmas Day Worship – Thursday, December 25, 10:00 a.m.

o   New Year’s Eve Worship – Wednesday, December 31, at 6:30 p.m.

 

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

The first step in the call process has been to complete a congregational self-study.  The Northwest District has shared the study and tools to help in this study.  The committee asked for and received input from ORLC for this study.  Nomination forms for names for a new pastor were also distributed.  The self-study, and nominations for pastor, were indeed sent to the Northwest District by October 1, 2025. 

Last week, Our Redeemer received a list of names of possible future pastors for Our Redeemer from the Northwest District.  The next meeting is Tuesday, December 9 at 6:30 p.m.

 

OTHER EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES AT OUR REDEEMER:

 

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

o   Matt Keith leads Chayon Ryu Martial Arts Class on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. in the Our Redeemer Fellowship Hall

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

• Youth Group meets after worship on one Sunday each month.   The will NOT meet in December. Return in January.

 

·       A Memory Café for families dealing with the issues of dementia was held at Our Redeemer on Friday November 14.  There was good attendance, including some families from the community.  The next Memory Café is scheduled for Friday, December 12 at 11:00 a.m..

 

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

 

Regular Bible Studies and Sunday School

 

·       Adult Bible Study continues on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m.   The class FINISHED studying “Basic Christian Teachings.” We are now be enjoying Bible Study’s based on Garrison Keillor monologues, specifically for holiday issues.   On Sunday, December 7, Keillor’s monologue is entitled, “The Christmas Tree.”  Come and join us!

 

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

 

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

 

·       Confirmation classes began on Sunday, October 12, after worship services.  We have 1 more class left this Fall on December 7.  Watch for more information.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

 

·       MANY CONTINUE TO READ THROUGH THE SCRIPTURES WITH ME IN 2024 and 2025 using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Wednesday, December 3, we read 1 John 3. We will soon have completed reading the Scriptures in a 2 year period.   

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

 

P.P.P.S. Family Fun and Fishing! 

 

·       Thanksgiving – Three of our 4 children and others joined us for Thanksgiving.  We had a table of celebrating, thankfully.  Here are a couple of pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/5HxgjTDUKurHMQQc9

 

·       Ken and Sandy Schauer – Some good friends of Kathy and me from our time in Alaska are Pastor Ken Schauer and his wife Sandi.  They worshipped with family at Our Redeemer on Sunday, November 30.  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/TPS3HmHJA7f2efa3A

 

·       Here is a picture of Kathy and me waiting in the airport for Jake, on Tuesday, December 3. https://photos.app.goo.gl/EUuXjRNgDMMLqaP19

 

·       Christmas Tree – We have a LARGE blue spruce tree which we planted in our front yard when we moved into our current house about 20 years ago.  Then it was about 3 feet tall.  Now it is about 30 feet tall.  This year for outside decorations I paid to have lights put on the tree.  (I used to do it myself, but the tree grew too tall for me.)  We will place a new lighted nativity scene in front of the tree for our outside decorations.  Here are a few pictures so far.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/4tbeA2qNG8opaPYDA

 

·       While I was busy and did not go fishing this past week, I received a gift from Kathy.  She gave me an advent calendar.  A FISHING Advent calendar.  Here is a picture. https://photos.app.goo.gl/wb2BwUHUy4imHDXH6

 

 

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

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

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

 

                                                                        *******

Jonathan Rockey

Child of God

Husband, Father, Son, Grandfather

Vacancy Pastor, Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Chugiak, AK

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

 

 

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