Hoping in JESUS Through the Groans of This Life!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

Do you ever feel like you are living the words of Scripture?  This past week has been wonderful in some ways.  However, many other events of the last week remind me of Romans 8:19-23. “¹⁹ For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. ²⁰ For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope ²¹ that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. ²² For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. ²³ And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first-fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.”  I feel like I have been experiencing the “futility of creation,” the results of its “bondage to corruption” because of sin.

 

Perhaps most obviously, in my past week I was present for 3 funerals (July 28, 31, and August 1).  One of those services was on the Kenai River for a friend.  The other two services I officiated as pastor.  I knew two of these people and their families pretty well.  Now, I do know that “The wages of sin is death . . .” (Romans 6:23a).  Nevertheless, it seems to me that each of these 3 people had life left to live, and to gifts to share with others.  Therefore, I have to trust the Lord in all 3 deaths.

 

On Sunday night, August 2, Kathy and I gathered with the Berberich family.  John Switzer, the father of Deidre, was one of those whose funerals I officated.  We were also joined by Herman and Linda Griese.  Our 3 families have been good friends for over 35 years.  But, as Herman and Linda arrived to bring comfort for the Berberich family, they shared tragic news of their own.  Herman and Linda’s daughter, Lauren, and her family lost their home in Spokane on Saturday night to a fire which destroyed their whole neighborhood.  Thankfully, Lauren and Dylan, and their daughters Abby and Anna, escaped safely.  Yet Herman showed me a picture of the smoldering foundation of Dylan and Lauren’s home.  The governor of WA suggested that global warming was at work.  The police, on the other hand, arrested a man for setting the fire.  This man had a previous criminal record, having been arrested for first degree murder of his father, but pleading to a lesser charge.  What is going on in our world?

 

On Monday, August 3, after taking care of a number of errands, I . . . went fishing.  Of course! The silver salmon are starting to enter the Little Susitna River.  Since I have had a boat, the years 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022 have been exceptional years for catching silvers.  (Maybe you see the pattern.) Often the limit has been raised because of the number of fish.  The last 3 years, fishing for silvers was closed down early because of a lack of fish returning, similar to the king salmon.  I had hope for 2026.  However, after catching my limit on Monday, I received 2 emails from Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Because of low return so far in 2026, the limit for silver salmon in the whole Susitna River system has been decreased to one fish a day.  This is bad news I was hoping not to hear.  It seems that creation IS groaning.  Sigh!

 

On Tuesday, August 4, I received a text from our next door neighbor.  A moose had visited their garden sometime Monday night, Tuesday morning.  Since their garden is close to mine, I walked out to the back yard and checked.  My 6 swiss chard plants are gone.  Most of my 18 cabbage plants are eaten.  There are also chunks taken out of my broccoli and collards.  Kathy is calling it the “moose smorgasboard.”  But I put a lot of work into those plants and have seldom had this problem in the past.  Sigh, again!

 

Now, none of these events by themselves are a surprise.  But for all of these things to happen in less than one week can be somewhat disconcerting.  I understand the words of the Psalmist.  “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.” (Psalm 42:11 and 43:5)

 

First, however, I know that I should not be surprised at the trials of this world.  As Paul writes in Romans 8, ALL CREATION exists in subjection. because of sin, until our Lord returns again.

 

Second, the words of the Psalmist point me to hope in this ‘down cast time.”  “Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.”  In fact, God assures us through St. Paul also in Romans 8, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” (Romans 8:18)  In the middle of life’s losses and struggles, it is the Lord and His deliverance in which we hope.

 

Specifically, we learn this coming Sunday, that we are to hope and to keep our eyes on God’s love for us in Jesus.  Our Gospel Lesson for this coming Sunday, August 9, the 11^th Sunday after Pentecost, is Matthew 14:22-33, the account of Jesus, and then Peter, walking on water.  After Peter left the boat, when he looked at the waves, and considered the wind, he took his eyes off Jesus and he began to sink.  On our own we do sink in this world of sin.  Because God loves us and sent His Son, as Jesus died for my sin and rose again defeating my sin and it’s results in this life, I can have hope.  I have hope for big things, even in the death of loved ones and friends.  I have hope during personal tragedies.  I can have hope even when nature seems to work against us.  “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”

 

What are you going through right now?  Do you know the love of God for you, in Jesus, even during the midst of your trials?  May the Lord indeed give you hope because, through faith in Jesus, God gives eternal life out of this broken world.  He is with us as we groan, waiting for His return.

 

A Child of God, Hoping in Jesus Through the Groans of This Life!

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I am now serving as Vacancy pastor at Anchorage Lutheran Church in Anchorage.  

·        Bible class –

o   On Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m. we are studying the book of Ephesians downstairs in the fellowship hall, using the CPH “Lifelight” Bible Study. There are still some lesson books available.  Class begins at 9:00 a.m. downstairs in the Fellowship Hall.  On August 9 we will continue studying Ephesians 2, and hope to begin chapter 3.

 

o   Lay Ministry Classes – I am teaching a class on the Sacraments AFTER worship on Sundays.   However, in addition to our Lay Worship Leaders, others may attend if they wish.  This week we will conclude our study about Baptism.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

I am again taking a two-year journey with my Lord, by reading through the Scriptures using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Wednesday, August 5, I read 1 Kings 21 and 22, about Ahab, his sin, and his death.   

You are welcome to join in this journey of reading God’s Word.  You may also contact me at 907-841-4066 if you have any questions about these readings.  Or send an e-mail question to jonrock53@mtaonline.net  I have received questions and comments about the readings.  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. Friends, Family Fun, and Fishing!    

 

·        A tragedy –

o   (From Lauren Griese Heck) Hello All. My sis and her family are safe, but lost their house and everything in it to a wildfire Saturday night. Here is their GoFundMe if you wanted and are able to help. She is also working to put together an Amazon wishlist for some of their more immediate needs. Thank you all.   https://gofund.me/f172c490f

 

o   (From Kathy) These are dear family friends who lost their home in the fire in Spokane. Our daughter Mary and Lauren have been friends since they were in preschool. We are grateful they are safe and have a temporary place to stay. Prayers as they work to rebuild their life are appreciated.

 

·        Funerals –

o   I attended a memorial for friend, Greg Jochner, on the Kenai River on Tuesday, July 28.  Greg died from an auto-immune disease, Miller Fisher Syndrome.

o   On Friday, July 31, I officiated at the grave-side service for John Switzer, father of Deidre Berberich.

o   On Saturday, August 1, I conducted a service at Anchorage Lutheran for Melissa VanNoy.

 

·        Yard and Garden –MOOSE AGAIN – A moose attacked our garden again.  I think it is now a pattern.  ☹ https://photos.app.goo.gl/6Piue9T8UMULurB86

 

·        Friends–   Here is a picture from our Sunday night gathering with the Berberich and Griese families.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/DrgBATT65GXYV8BW7

 

·        Fishing - I got to go fishing a number of times since the last devotion.

 

o   I fished on the Kenai River out of my cabin in Sterling Monday-Wednesdsay, July 27-29.  Here are some pictures of fishing with a pole.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/JYSs5YEXxcWTm7d9A

 

o   I took Tim and Megan and Megan’s parents fishing on Finger Lake on Thursday, July 30.Megan’s parents, Jamie and Tina Pacer, were visiting from the Upper Peninsula in MI.  Everyone fishing caught fish.  Here are some pictures (and an interesting video). https://photos.app.goo.gl/5Bsh97DcBYXzeKeJ7

 

o   On Monday, August 3, after some chores at home, I went fishing on the Little Susitna.  I had quite a few fish on the line, and brought home a limit of 2 silvers.  (Unfortunately, the next day the limit was dropped to one fish a day a person.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/KH1B92tSuwWq7iJBA

 

*******

 

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.  (I finished for now serving as Assistant to the Pastor for First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL. I am now serving Anchorage Lutheran Church as Vacancy Pastor.)

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, Anchorage Lutheran Church, Anchorage, 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)

 

Thanking My Lord for His Grace and Love and Provision – Even for Fish!”

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

Kathy and I often say to each other, “We are SO blessed!” We know that our Lord has been good to us with our families, in our jobs, with our friends and our health.  In many ways God has provided the things we may simply desire to enjoy life.  And we know, none of these blessings compare to the grace we receive in Jesus.  Nothing compares to the fact that sinful people like us are forgiven and saved.  God IS so good!  We are truly blessed!!

 

However, I sometimes hesitate to share all these blessings from our Heavenly Father in my devotions.  I know that others currently struggle with health, with financial issues, with family troubles.  God’s goodness can be hard to see in someone else, when our own lives are painful.  So, I am careful when sharing.

 

Nevertheless, when our Lord is so obviously good, are we not called to give thanks?  Should we not recognize the goodness of God?  One of my favorite Old Testament verses calls God’s people to, “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.” (Psalm 136:1 and many other verses.) In 1 Thessalonians God calls His New Testament people, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) So let me share a story about a reason for thanks. Yes, a fishing story!

 

Earlier in July I sat down with Mary and Brandon and compared calendars.  We decided on dates to go to the Kenai and fish for red salmon.  Yet, the times we chose were not looking good.  We arrived in Sterling on Wednesday, July 22.  The ADF&G keeps count of the various species of salmon which return to spawn, in order to better manage this valuable resource. They publish this data daily on their web page.  A count of 40,000 red salmon on the Kenai River during the peak season is ok, but not good.  A count of 20,000 fish is bad.  On Wednesday the count published by ADF&G was 18,040.  Horrible!  Thursday morning the reported count for Wednesday’s fish was 11,603! Worse than horrible!!

 

Then the weather report for Thursday was bad.  In fact, I heard some talking who said it would be dangerous to fish because of the waves. Winds were forecast at 19 mph, with gusts to 39 mph. 

 

So, no fish, and bad weather.  It wasn’t looking good for fishing with a pole and line, nor for dip-netting.  That is why Thursday morning I did some work around the cabin.  I took down a tree which had fallen in last winter’s weather.  I repaired the roof where the tree had fallen and caused some damage.  Even though we had set this time aside to fish, on Thursday morning fishing was only a thought, a wish.

 

Then, around noon I received calls from 2 friends.  Fred Vasilie told me that one of his friends had seen salmon jumping off the bluffs.  Fred told me, “I think the wind is supposed to die down.  We are going to try to put in around 4:00 p.m.”  Then I visited with Wayne Mize who shared,  “I hear fish are jumping.  I think the wind is going to drive the fish in.”  So, I talked with my daughter and son-in-law, Mary and Brandon, and we decided that we would try too.

 

We got to the city boat launch in Kenai.  There are times we have waited two hours or more to launch, with long lines and angry workers.  (A lady police officer once waved her pistol and shouted at Mary and Dave Nufer and I! Then we caught no fish that day because the commercial nets were blocking the mouth of the river! ☹ )  But, on Thursday, because of the low counts and bad weather reports, we drove right in at the city docks, and there was a boat ramp waiting for us, with NO DELAY!

 

We put in around 4:30 or 5:00 p.m. The wind was still blowing a little, and we found some waves. However, the longer we were on the water, the calmer the wind and the waves got.

 

There are times I have fished with the nets from the boat for 6, 8, 10 hours, and found few, if any fish. But we talked with Fred.  Their boat got 10 fish on their first drift down the river. Once Mary and Brandon and I figured out where to drift, and how to tie off our nets, we started getting fish too.  We only had 3 fish on our first run.  But then our nets were filling.  Brandon netted 2.  Mary got one.  Brandon got another two in a net.  Mary got another.  As Brandon was trying to help Mary get the fish out of her net, I held Brandon’s net over the side while steering and guiding the boat at the same time – sort of.  I had two fish in the net, but could not bring them in with one hand, while steering my boat with the other hand, and the fish swam out.  Brandon got 3 fish in one net.  We talked about how many fish we wanted.  I said that Kathy and I would like 25 of our limit of 35.  They wanted 20, but I suggested 25 for them.  However, when we got to 52 red salmon, they said, “Let do another run.”  We actually did 3 more runs.  When our count was 66 (we were allowed 85), I said that it was time to stop!

 

So, on a day when the weather was supposed to be bad, when there weren’t supposed to be any fish, God provided a bounty for our freezers!  And there was no drama at the docks, no wait, no hollering, no cursing, no guns!  We have 132 fillets vacuum sealed in our freezers.

 

I do not believe that the good things in life are a coincidence.  God has taken care of us beyond imagination (Ephesians 3:20 NIV) when He sent Jesus to save the world.  BECAUSE He has taken care of this biggest need, because He loves and provides for us, I trust that the seemingly smaller blessings are from our Heavenly Father.

 

I do not want to receive this blessing and not say thanks.  There could have been no fish – again!  There could have been big crowds and angry people at the docks, again.  The weather could have been dangerous and blown us off the water.  Instead we ended up with freezers full of fish.  We are so blessed!

 

I tried to tell Brandon, “It’s not always like this, you know – good weather, few people, LOTS of fish.”  He replied, “But, it is when I’m here.” 😊 God is good!  Thank you Lord for your love and provision.  Thank you for Jesus!

 

A Child of God, Thanking My Lord for His Grace and Love and Provision – Even for Fish!”

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I am now serving as Vacancy pastor at Anchorage Lutheran Church in Anchorage.  

·        Bible class –

o   On Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m. we are studying the book of Ephesians downstairs in the fellowship hall, using the CPH “Lifelight” Bible Study. There are still some lesson books available.  Class begins at 9:00 a.m. downstairs in the Fellowship Hall.  On August 2 we will continue studying Ephesians 2.

 

o   Lay Ministry Classes – I am teaching a class on the Sacraments AFTER worship on Sundays.   However, in addition to our Lay Worship Leaders, others may attend if they wish.  In the coming weeks we will study about Baptism.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

I am again taking a two-year journey with my Lord, by reading through the Scriptures using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Monday, July 27, I read 1 Kings 9 and 10, about the glory and wealth of Solomon’s kingdom.   

You are welcome to join in this journey of reading God’s Word.  You may also contact me at 907-841-4066 if you have any questions about these readings.  Or send an e-mail question to jonrock53@mtaonline.net  I have received questions and comments about the readings.  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. Friends, Family Fun and Fishing!    

 

·        Yard and Garden – Again, my Garden is doing ok.  Everything is soggy with all our rain.  Some plants are struggling, though we have lots of greens, and should have good potatoes and raspberries.  

o   Also, A MOOSE FOUND OUR SWISS CHARD!  Here is a picture of the muddy hoof print, and the topped off chard plants. https://photos.app.goo.gl/X2ZHhdLKzNnxFiTv6

 

o   Our peonies are finally starting to bloom.  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/nQixcpPSLS6SeuzU6

 

·        Friends and Fishing –  

o   Here are some pictures of the cabin, my dog Mat, and the work I did to repair the roof.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Y5FR8qQbuJtjJh9H9

 

o   Here are dip-netting pictures from Thursday, July 23. https://photos.app.goo.gl/5keyz5TJhL4NJJEM6

 

o   Here are pictures of us cleaning the salmon on Friday, July 24.  (Actually we finished on Friday afternoon.  We started cleaning Friday morning from 12:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.  Total cleaning time was about 6 hours – WITH HELP!  https://photos.app.goo.gl/WxwQxyVaeLGmFKtj8

 

o   Here is a picture of one of the fillets as we put them into our freezer.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/gxi5TPmU22wGC1FD7

 

 

 

*******

 

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.  (I finished for now serving as Assistant to the Pastor for First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL. I am now serving Anchorage Lutheran Church as Vacancy Pastor.)

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, Anchorage Lutheran Church, Anchorage, 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)

 

Thankful that in the Frustrations of Life – God Overcomes by the Power of His Love!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

Did you ever try to make plans, have you sought to accomplish something for yourself or for the Lord, and felt like you were just ‘spinning your wheels?’ Have you ever tried to do something worthwhile and felt thwarted at every turn?  Have you been frustrated in living your life, your faith? In truth, we have all known frustration!

 

Sunday morning, leaving for church, was a frustrating experience for me!  On Saturday night I thought I was totally prepared.  My Bible classes and sermon were written.  I had already showered.  I had breakfast set aside.  I thought I could easily leave early on Sunday morning for classes and worship at Anchorage Lutheran.

 

However, that morning turned out differently than expected.  In pouring a cup of coffee, our coffee pot spewed forth some “coffee tar,” spilling thick, dark liquid onto the counter and the floor. (Thankfully the “tar” missed my Sunday clothing.)  As usual on Sunday mornings, I took a final look at my sermon, and sought to print final copies, but my printer jammed in a way I have never seen before. I was unable to print the final version of my sermon.  I did have a crinkled dirty copy to use that Sunday morning.  By now with these delays, instead of leaving early, I left right on time for Anchorage.  At least that is what I thought.

 

Then, on the way to Anchorage the rain fell, unusually hard for Alaska, all the way to town.  I fought hydro-planing in my truck, with other vehicles beside me struggling with the water in the ruts of the Glenn Highway.  When I finally arrived a block away from Anchorage Lutheran I was just on time.  However, a policeman turned me away. The Mayor’s Marathon was going right by the church, on the east and on the south! I was told, “You’re not going this way!”  I tried another approach, and that was also blocked.  I attempted to park across the street and walk to church, but there were new, special “no parking” signs.  Finally, I talked with another policeman. He squeezed me through the line of runners into the back of the church parking lot.  Imagine the pastor trying to arrive at church, yet not being allowed to get onto the property!  I do confess to frustration! I finally arrived about 5 minutes late for Bible Class.

 

When I arrived home that afternoon I shared my frustration with my wife.  I told her I thought I had been ready on Saturday night, but the weather and everything else worked against me.  I felt somewhat powerless.  Kathy instructed me, “It wasn’t just the weather.  The devil did not want you to get to church.”

 

Now please consider our Heavenly Father. He created our world by the power of His word, with creative wisdom, and in love.  In Genesis Scripture reveals to us about His creation. ³¹ And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good.  (Genesis 1:31) Nevertheless, our original ancestors gave in to the temptations of selfishness and pride from our enemy.  So, the Lord worked through Noah, through Abraham, through Jacob and Joseph. God acted for His people through Moses and David, through Isaiah and Jeremiah, through other leaders and prophets, to call His people to faithfulness.  Yet, to our discredit, every appeal of our Lord’s wisdom and love has been met with hard hearts and the rebellion of those He calls. God sent leaders and prophets to call us to faithful, righteous lives. Time and again God’s created children, even those who claim to follow Him, have turned away toward sinful attitudes and behaviors.  Our sin destines us to the consequences of our transgressions.  We face tribulations, death, and judgement.  What happened to the good plans of God for His creation and His people?

 

Yet, God was not, and He is not powerless.  Our Lord met the opposition of the enemy, He met the sin of His people, with the power and grace of His love.  We live in a world of chaos because of the rebellion of sin.  In spite of our wayward lives, God cares for His people.  Our Heavenly Father sent His Son to the sinful world to take on our sin, and to deal with the chaos and trouble we cause with our fallen lives.  In love, Jesus sacrificed His life. In power and righteousness, He rose from the dead.  God takes the chaos of sin, and offers the peace and joy of eternal life.

 

In 1 Peter God teaches us, “⁶ Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, ⁷ casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” ⁸ Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. ⁹ Resist him, firm in your faith . . . “  (1 Peter 5:6-9a) We face chaos and trouble.  God cares for us through the trials of this world through His Son.  In life’s frustrations we can cast ourselves on the loving care of God.

 

On Sunday morning, after a frustrating beginning, Bible Class went well, worship went well, and I had a great class after our church service with folks interested in helping with worship!

 

We may be our own worst enemies, but in Jesus God has called us to the blessings of His love and grace through faith in Jesus, and He continues to call.  We are not in charge, but our Lord is, and He acts in love through Jesus.  When life gives struggles, in spite of our best efforts, thankfully, the Lord who created the world in power has acted in love.  When life brings frustrations, we can “⁶ Humble ourselves . . . under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt us, ⁷ casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for us.”

 

A Child of God, Thankful that in the Frustrations of Life – God Overcomes by the Power of His Love!

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I am now serving as Vacancy pastor at Anchorage Lutheran Church in Anchorage.  

·        Bible class –

o   On Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m. we are studying the book of Ephesians downstairs in the fellowship hall, using the CPH “Lifelight” Bible Study. There are still some lesson books available.  Class begins at 9:00 a.m. downstairs in the Fellowship Hall.  On July 26 we will get into Ephesians 2.

 

o   Lay Ministry Classes – I am teaching a class on the Sacraments AFTER worship on Sundays.   However, in addition to our Lay Worship Leaders, others may attend if they wish.  On July 26 we will look at Bible verses on Baptism.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

I am again taking a two-year journey with my Lord, by reading through the Scriptures using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Wednesday, July 22, I read 1 Kings 1 and 2, about the end of David’s life and the crowning of Solomon.  In spite of the loving and righteous hand of God, it is amazing how the sin in the lives of God’s people still shows itself.  ☹

You are welcome to join in this journey of reading God’s Word.  You may also contact me at 907-841-4066 if you have any questions about these readings.  Or send an e-mail question to jonrock53@mtaonline.net  I have received questions and comments about the readings.  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. Friends, Family Fun and Fishing!    

 

·        Yard and Garden – My Garden is doing ok.  Everything is soggy with all our rain.  However, I weeded on July 16.  We have lots of greens, and should have good potatoes and raspberries.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/Rn1SYti9rmF3ioDZ7

 

·        Friends and Fishing –  We have a summer full of visitors.  For much of the last week we have had a delightful visit from Pastor Chris Kollmann, wife Steph, and their sons, Micah, Jacob, and Zachery.  We experienced lots of activities together, including two fishing trips.  Here are some pictures.

 

o   On Friday night, July 17, I took the family fishing on Finger Lake.  All 3 boys caught stocked land-locked salmon.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/tk5YzE3AGD5Kirzh6

 

o   On Saturday, July 18, we went up into the mountains to Hatcher Pass State Park.

§  We hiked Gold Mint Trail. https://photos.app.goo.gl/1GXEnKduL72LDRx9A

§  We stopped at the 16 Mile Lookout. (It was cloudy – no pictures.)

§  We spent time at the Independence Mine Historic Site. https://photos.app.goo.gl/fdFxjV1tNLWYT19e7

§  We drove up to Summit Lake at the top of the Talkeetna Mountains. https://photos.app.goo.gl/svqDfu9VSHVgMTx39

 

o   On Sunday, July 19, we went fishing at a local lake.  EVERYBODY caught fish.  Here are some pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/YHkj13k14yo2A2KeA

 

o   On Monday, July 20, we drove up to the Matanuska Glacier and took a guided tour.  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/6TQa3vv5fRknV9uu9

 

o   On Tuesday, July 21, Kathy and I went about our activities and the Kollmanns went to Seward and took a Glacier Tour / Wildlife trip.

 

·        On Tuesday, July 21, I was met at Anchorage Lutheran by seminary classmate Tom VanDuzer and his wife Mary who were visiting Alaska.  Here are a couple of pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/Zmos5uDT1eSah1hQ6

 

 

*******

 

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.  (I finished for now serving as Assistant to the Pastor for First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL. I am now serving Anchorage Lutheran Church as Vacancy Pastor.)

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, Anchorage Lutheran Church, Anchorage, 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)

 

Reconciliation or Retribution? - God's Grace Makes a Difference!

 

Dear Fellow Children of God, 

 

I once watched a disagreement begin, and grow, and become somewhat bitter.  One person (now deceased) suggested all choir members wear red on Pentecost Day.  The other person (also deceased) replied that “Red is not my color.”  As the disagreement grew, both people said un-loving words to and about the other. I heard from each about how they were right.  The reasoning went this way: “If ‘that other person’ has done wrong, then I must be right.”  That thought process, though seemingly logical, is wrong.  Yet, unfortunately, this line of thinking is not uncommon.  I have also found such assertions when husbands and wives may be at odds.  Just because the other person is wrong does NOT make me right!  Actually, being right is often not being loving!

 

The truth is that, when there is hurt between two people, usually both sides have some blame to bear.  The truth is, in God’s eyes, that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” (Romans 3:23)  When dealing with others, rather than focusing on what the person who hurt me has done, it is wise to consider how I might personally have done wrong.  When dealing with others, humility is a virtue which can help relationships grow, rather than cause them to descend into disagreement, into resentment, and into harsh feelings. 

 

In my current devotional readings I am studying about the rift between King David and his son, Absalom.  This is a sad chapter in the reign of King David with many mistakes on both sides of this division.  However, there is a way, which is still striking, in which David showed humility.  As David and his followers fled Jerusalem, and fled a coming attack by Absalon and his followers, some people helped David in his escape.  However, others sought to grow the disagreement.  A certain man named Shimei cursed David as he fled, and threw stones at him.  Abishai, one of David’s cousins and soldiers, wanted to cut off Shimei’s head.  David, perhaps surprisingly, first confessed that he is not God, “If he is cursing because the LORD has said to him, 'Curse David,' who then shall say, 'Why have you done so?'"  (2 Samuel 16:5-13) David did not know the mind of God in this dispute.  Yet David did know his own mistakes. Nevertheless, imagine the king of Israel submitting to such mis-treatment!

 

However, David then trusted himself to God’s righteousness and care, “¹² It may be that the LORD will look on the wrong done to me, and that the LORD will repay me with good for his cursing today." ¹³ So David and his men went on the road, while Shimei went along on the hillside opposite him and cursed as he went and threw stones at him and flung dust.”  (2 Sam. 16:12-13) So, David first acted in humility, and then trusted himself to the Lord’s care.

 

Such humility in personal relationships is taught in Old and New Testaments.  In Proverbs 25 God says, “²¹ If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink, ²² for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you.”  (Proverbs 25:21-22) Paul repeats this wisdom from Proverbs and adds more instruction in Romans 12, “¹⁸ If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. ¹⁹ Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’ ²⁰ To the contrary, ‘if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.’ ²¹ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:18-21)

 

The ultimate example of such humility is found in the righteous Son of God, our Savior, Jesus.  Peter teaches, “¹⁹ For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. ²⁰ For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. ²¹ For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. ²² He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. ²³ When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. ²⁴ He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.” (1 Peter 2:19-24)

 

As I share how God calls us “not to return evil for evil,” I rejoice that I saw just the opposite happen recently.  I saw two people reconcile.  They had once been fast friends, but a rift, somewhat understandably, had separated them for years.  However, I saw them embrace one another and move toward the future.  Both people are Christian.

 

Therefore, we have some lessons to learn.  First, just because others act wrongly, does not make me right.  Such self-righteousness blinds me to my own sins.  Truthfully, only Jesus is righteous. 

 

Second, when we take vengeance we place ourselves into the role of judge, taking the place of God, Himself.  We are to let God bring punishment, not take it ourselves.

 

Third, because of our sin, God calls us to act in humility, considering my own failings when faced with the wrongs of others.  How can I look down on someone else for their wrongs, when I am a sinner myself?

 

Finally, we can count on the Lord to act in grace and righteousness.  When we deserve punishment, the just payment for our sins, God has saved us sinners through the suffering and death of His Son, Jesus. Our Lord calls us to follow Jesus in dealing with the wrongs we face from others.  Ultimately, when I feel wronged, I can trust God’s love for me in Jesus.  I can act in humility and kindness, even when others hurt me.  Such humble wisdom is more easily said than done.  That is why we need a Savior.  That is why we need Jesus. 

 

May our Lord work reconciliation with others in our lives. May such reconciliation show that His mercy for us does indeed have power in this world.

 

A Child of God, Seeking Humility and Faith in Jesus for When I am Wronged,

Pastor Rockey

 

P.S.  I am now serving as Vacancy pastor at Anchorage Lutheran Church in Anchorage.  

·        Bible class –

o   On Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m. we are studying the book of Ephesians downstairs in the fellowship hall, using the CPH “Lifelight” Bible Study. There are still some lesson books available.  Class begins at 9:00 a.m. downstairs in the Fellowship Hall.

 

o   Lay Ministry Classes – I am teaching a class on the Sacraments AFTER worship on Sundays.   However, in addition to our Lay Worship Leaders, others may attend if they wish.

 

Other Activities of Faith:

I am again taking a two-year journey with my Lord, by reading through the Scriptures using the “Today’s Light Devotional Bible.”  On Wednesday, July 15, I read 2 Samuel 15-16, about David and Absalom.

You are welcome to join in this journey of reading God’s Word.  You may also contact me at 907-841-4066 if you have any questions about these readings.  Or send an e-mail question to jonrock53@mtaonline.net  I have received questions and comments about the readings.  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 Fun and Fishing!    

 

·        Yard and Garden –

o   My Garden is doing great.  I took no new pictures during the rain and wind this week.  We just ate spinach and lettuce.

 

·        Fishing –  I was going to fish and golf on Monday, but the rain, the cool weather, and the wind kept me inside.  However, I plan to do some salmon fishing in the next two weeks!

 

·        WE DID HAVE VISITORS FROM FLORIDA!

o   On Friday, July 10, Pastor Jeff Shanks from St. John Lutheran in Ocala visited along with a mission team from his congregation.  They are leading Vacation Bible School in Scammon Bay this week.  Here are some pictures. https://photos.app.goo.gl/wvFzTdgRCbJMVq276

 

o   On Saturday, July 11, Pastor Chris Kollmann from First Lutheran in Gainesville, and much family stopped by as they were on the way to Denali National Park.  No pictures yet.  They will happen this coming week.

 

·        On Sunday, July 12, we watched an interesting sporting event.  Our Son, Tim, plays on more than one softball team.  One of his teams was in the championship game, and actually won , on Sunday night in Talkeetna.  However, the real show was the MUD.  The championship was the last of 27 games that weekend.  It rained all weekend long. The field was one big, sloppy, slippery mud puddle.  Here are a couple of pictures.  https://photos.app.goo.gl/v33MMFBkTxYU5ViV6

 

 

 

*******

 

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.  (I finished for now serving as Assistant to the Pastor for First Lutheran Church in Gainesville, FL. I am now serving Anchorage Lutheran Church as Vacancy Pastor.)

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, Anchorage Lutheran Church, Anchorage, 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)